Ghee is undeniably considered a healthy fat and is often recommended to be eaten raw, drizzled over hot cooked food. Ghee reduces the acidic pH of our digestive tract and improves absorption in the small intestine. Antioxidants naturally found in cow ghee fight free radicals and stop oxidation. Ghee is the main source of fuel for all the cells of the body and Ayurveda says that consuming it in the morning on an empty stomach heals the body as Rasa. It is very important to give ghee to children, because it enhances cell renewal, which accelerates the growth of the child’s body. Here are some of the factors that make ghee essential for children:
Prevents childhood obesity
Most parents worry that it may cause weight gain and obesity and are often hesitant to give ghee to their children. In fact, because ghee is lipolytic in nature, it improves digestion and overall health by breaking down the fats in other foods. Conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA, is another substance found in large amounts in ghee and is good for the heart and for weight loss. Thus, ghee really aids in digestion and helps in weight control when consumed in moderation.
Provides complete nutrition
Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, E and K can also be found in ghee. Together, these nutrients promote blood clotting, bone density, immunity, skin health, and brain development.
Helps in the growth of the child
Vitamin E, which is contained in ghee in small quantities, contributes to the normal growth and development of the child. It has several nutrients that help your baby’s brain and bone growth. Since pure cow ghee is so palatable and has been shown to improve digestion and immunity, it is ideal for newborns whose immune and digestive systems are still developing.
Increases good fat
Butyric acid and medium-chain triglycerides in ghee help mobilize and remove hard-to-eliminate fats from the body, which raises good cholesterol. But overconsumption is not a good idea.
Improves energy levels
Fat, which is abundant in ghee, is a concentrated source of energy that supports the rapid development and growth of the child. In particular, saturated fat – one of the most common forms of fat in breast milk – is found in large amounts in ghee. Saturated fat in dairy products has been scrutinized in recent years for its link to heart disease in adults, but a new study from the NCBI suggests they may be a healthy component of a balanced diet and may not have such harmful effects on the heart. as previously believed.
How to include ghee in a child’s diet?
The most effective way to include ghee in your child’s diet is to use proven recipes.
A bowl of hot daal can be served with rice and a little ghee.
Adding ghee and jaggery powder to the year and rolling it up for your child as a midday or evening snack is another perennial favourite.
Another tasty and nutritious dish that most children love is halva. Just fry 2 teaspoons of atta (whole wheat flour) in 1 teaspoon of heated ghee. When the atta turns golden brown, pour in 1.5 cups of boiling water. Keep stirring until the halwa is ready and the water is absorbed.
