Mushrooms are loaded with essential nutrients and are available all the year round. It is a good source of iron, contains Vitamin D, antioxidants, strengthens immune system and provides liver protection. Read on to learn about the health benefits of mushrooms for kids.For hundreds of years mushrooms have been part of diet for people perhaps for the reason of being juicy and delightful. There is a peculiar flavour in it and the fine taste of mushrooms that has captivated many since years. Although, mushrooms are not the food that comes in parents’ mind, but you can introduce mushrooms in to your child’s diet after he is a year old after consulting his or her peadiatrician.
Generally, people buy mushrooms from stores because even though many mushrooms in the wild are edible, it is difficult to distinguish between edible and non-edible ones. Above all, no home test can determine whether the mushrooms are safe or not. This is the reason why many people are skeptical about giving mushrooms to kids. Although, the mushrooms that are sold in general stores are safe, you must definitely consult a peadiatrician before including them in your child's diet.
Top 10 Health Benefits of Mushrooms for Kids
Have a quick look at the reasons why you should include mushrooms in your child’s diet.
1. An Increasingly Good Source of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is popularly known as sunshine vitamin and many know that human body gets this vitamin only when exposed to sun. Many children are not exposed to sunlight and hence they lack this very important vitamin. Mushrooms contain moderate amount of vitamin D and they come handy too.
2. High in Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is usually found in animal products and since children cannot take this in sufficient quantity, many lack or depend on supplements. Mushrooms are considered as a decent source of vitamin B12 and this is also good news for vegetarians. Vitamin B12 will help enhance metabolism in your child’s body and he will stay energetic and happy.
3. Good Source of Iron
Iron is very important for kids and helps form new blood cells. Supply of iron is vital for ideal development of a child because iron also bonds with oxygen and supplies oxygen to different parts of the body. You can provide the daily requirement of iron for your kid by introducing mushrooms in his or her diet.
4. Strengthens Immune System
Studies show that due to presence of some specific biochemical, mushrooms help strengthen immune system. If your child’s immune system is strong he or she will be less likely to fall prey to common illnesses. Mushrooms will save your child from infections and help keep him healthy.
5. Possess Antioxidant Properties
Mushrooms contain biochemical that contains antioxidant properties which help fight free radicals in the body.
6. Rich Source of Calcium
Calcium is an essential element for bone health. It helps in formation and strengthening of bones. Mushrooms are good source of calcium and can provide the requirement of calcium for your kid and help him grow well and strong. Calcium also stimulates and regulates absorption of iron in the body.
7. Contains Copper
Since mushrooms contain copper, which has large number of beneficial effects on the body, they are definitely going to help your child stay healthy.
8. Good for Bladder
Mushrooms contain high level of selenium which has a significant protective effect and will keep your child’s excretory system healthy.
9. Manifold Benefits
Mushroom is good for blood circulation, eyesight and can fight cancerous cells also.
10. Protects Liver
In addition to all the above mentioned benefits, mushrooms help protect liver from damage. The liver of infants can get damaged due to jaundice or hepatitis. It can even control severe hepatitis B.
Take precautions while buying mushrooms and buy from only trusted stores and always cook properly before you serve.
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