From birth, babies rely on their mother’s milk, a rich source of calcium, to support their growth. However, once the breastfeeding phase ends, their need for calcium remains just as important for developing strong and healthy bones.
As a new parent, choosing the right calcium-rich foods for your child can be overwhelming, but ensuring they get the right nutrients is essential for their overall development. Read on to discover some of the best calcium rich foods for babies.
Top calcium-rich foods for babies
Some calcium-rich foods you should add to your baby’s diet are as follows:
1. Almond
Dry fruits, especially almonds, are a popular choice for babies. According to the USDA report, a single almond has 3.23 mg of calcium, contributing to your child’s teeth and bones development.
2. Oranges
Fruits are essential but if you are searching for calcium-rich foods for babies, orange is one of the best choices. This fruit contains around 55 mg of calcium.
3. Broccoli
Broccoli may not be a favorite among kids, but it's packed with essential vitamins and minerals that support their growth. Introducing it into your child's diet regularly can help them develop a taste for the vegetable over time.
4. Dairy Products
Milk and its by-products are rich sources of calcium and should ideally be fed to babies several times a day. As per a study conducted by Medical News Today, drinking milk every day might reduce the risk of LDL (low-density lipoproteins) and coronary heart disease.
Cheese and yoghurt are milk by-products, making them a great option for feeding your baby a calcium-rich meal.
5. Figs
Figs are among the best calcium-rich fruits to be given to babies daily. You can feed figs as they are or mix them in yoghurt or milk so your child can consume them easily.
6. Calcium-fortified tofu
Tofu, a nutritious soybean-based food, becomes an excellent calcium-rich option for babies when prepared with calcium-based salts. You may also serve it as finger food or mix it into soups and vegetable dishes for a wholesome meal.
Conclusion
Calcium-rich foods play a crucial role in your baby's healthy growth and development. From fruits like figs and oranges to milk and its products, there are plenty of nutritious options. However, it's equally important to complement these with a well-balanced diet to support overall health.
Regular checkups and preventive care should also be a priority during this sensitive stage of your child's life. Being proactive about their health can make a significant difference. Acquiring an appropriate medical insurance policy can help cover medical expenses, ensuring financial security. It also provides coverage for unforeseen medical events, including treatments, hospital stays, and more, giving you peace of mind as a parent.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.