4 Common Summer Diet Mistakes To Avoid For Children

As the temperature rises, it becomes essential for parents to cool down their little ones' body temperature.

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Written By: Tavishi Dogra | Updated : May 21, 2024 6:20 PM IST

In earlier times, summer months were considered when elements (Pitta) tended to get out of balance. In Ayurveda, Pitta dosha is one of the three fundamental energies that govern the body and mind, especially in toddlers who don't leave a single chance for fun and exploration. As the temperature rises, it becomes essential for parents to cool down their little ones' body temperature. According to Dr Urvi Ashani, R&D Head of BabyOrgano, ayurvedic foods and drinks like homemade juices and leafy greens can protect the body from dietary pitfalls for little ones.

  1. Too Much Sugary Treats And Beverages: During summer, food and beverages like ice cream, sweet iced tea, and cold drinks might seem refreshing, but they spike blood sugar levels and sometimes can be challenging to digest. Additionally, too much sugar intake can increase the risk of dental cavities among toddlers and also disrupt energy levels. Instead, it is best to go for homemade juices where parents can control the sugar amount other alternative food options like yoghurt parfaits with fresh berries and homemade fruit popsicles.
  2. Dehydration: Summer and dehydration go hand-in-hand, especially in young children too young to commute their thirst efficiently. While water should be the primary beverage for toddlers, many parents need to pay more attention to the importance of adequate hydration. During summer, parents must encourage frequent water breaks, feed hydrating fruits like watermelon and cucumbers, and, most importantly, avoid taking kids outside in this scorching heat.

  3. Skipping The First Day of The Meal: During summer, our appetite tends to lessen than usual, especially for toddlers who love keeping themselves focused on playing and running all over the house. However, doing this in the long run can harm the appetite of the little ones and also lead to poor eating habits. Therefore, parents must maintain a consistent meal schedule for their little ones with balanced snacks and meals that should be evenly spaced throughout the day. This will ensure your kid receives all the required nutrients to support their growth and development while keeping hunger-induced meltdowns at bay.
  4. Avoid Spicy And Junk Foods: Always prefer to avoid feeding junk to children during summer. Consuming spicy or junk foods can increase body temperature, and with the constant rising heat, such foods can harm your toddler's health. Additionally, packaged or processed foods are high in sodium and contain preservatives and unhealthy fats, which cause weight gain and other issues like bloating, frequent stomach infections, etc.
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