Mushrooms provide many important nutrients for the body. Mushrooms include low-calorie foods but are rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, as well as minerals and antioxidants. These various nutrients help nourish the heart and strengthen the body's immune system. Although the benefits are very tempting, can babies eat mushrooms? From what age do babies eat mushrooms?
Can babies eat mushrooms?
Of course. Mushrooms are one of the healthy food sources that can help with nutritional adequacy. The chewy texture and unique taste can also be new food introductory ingredients for children who are in the food stage or eat solid food.
No need to worry about mushrooms that you buy poisonous or not, because mushrooms sold in general on traditional markets and commercial supermarkets are certain to be safe to eat.
Babies may eat mushrooms as long as they do not show an allergic reaction. After trying to give it once, you should wait for a few days to see if your baby shows signs of allergies after eating mushrooms. If yes, don't give it again. But if your baby does not experience any problems, you can continue to give mushrooms as a solid food ingredient.
When can babies eat mushrooms?
Reporting from Healthline, there is no official benchmark regarding the age limit for babies who can eat mushrooms - provided that they are able and used to eating solid food. On the other hand, some health experts advise parents to start introducing mushrooms on the baby's diet when he is 10-12 months old.
At this age, babies may eat mushrooms in their whole form. do not have to be mashed. The important thing is that it has been thoroughly cooked and served in pieces to fit the baby's mouth and can be held by his hand. Also make sure the size is not too small or oversized to prevent the baby from choking.
Never give mushrooms in raw form. Although raw mushrooms can be eaten, the baby's digestive system is still not as strong as an adult to process raw food.
What are the benefits of mushrooms for babies?
Reported on the Healthline page, the researchers found many benefits of mushrooms as children's daily food. A number of studies, for example, found that the potassium content of several types of fungi was higher than that of a banana. Potassium plays an important role in maintaining fluid balance in the body, as well as maintaining nervous system function.
Mushrooms are also a source of fiber, and selenium is good for children. Selenium can function to prevent inflammation in the body and reduce the growth of cancer cells. Mushrooms are also rich in vitamin D which helps build the strength of the baby's teeth and bones.
In addition, mushrooms are a good source of iron. Iron is very important for forming new blood cells and supplying oxygen throughout the body. Interestingly, fungi can also increase the baby's immune system.
How to process mushrooms that are practical for babies
Mushrooms can be served as a main dish, side dishes, or snack menus in various ways, serving, for example sauteed, baked, or boiled.
Here are some practical ways you can try to serve mushrooms as your next baby's diet.
1. Sauteed mushrooms
Saute mushrooms that have been cut into small pieces with butter or olive oil, garlic and a little salt. Stir-fried mushrooms are ready to be eaten with rice, pasta, porridge, or other carbohydrate sources that you have prepared for your baby. You can also add finely minced meat to the stir-fried mushrooms.
2. Mushroom soup
In addition to carrots, potatoes, and beans that are included in the soup, you can also add sliced mushrooms or button mushrooms in children's soup. The variety of vegetables in this soup will help babies recognize new textures and flavors.
3. Scrambled egg contents of mushrooms
Make scrambled eggs with mushroom chops. The method is quite easy, mix the eggs, margarine, grated cheese, and add the chopped mushrooms. Then cook this egg on a small skillet over medium heat. Stir the eggs and lift them when they are perfectly cooked.