As the summer holidays come to an end and children go back to school, it is common for mothers to resume their constant search for foods that satisfy their child’s discerning palate and meet their daily nutritional needs. also complete. The phase of their life is one that requires a focus on food rich in nutrients that support their high energy levels and the growth of their bodies. During this phase, one nutrient that every baby needs is protein. Protein is involved in a myriad of functions ranging from physical development, organ health and hormonal functions to the development of a strong immune system. While the traditional Indian diet is enriched with myriad sources of protein, one ingredient that stands out as a torchbearer of the nutrient is soybeans.
Benefits of soybeans:
A humble member of the legume family of vegetables, soybeans are one of the few known plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids, similar to the protein-rich food found in meat. With the protein content of soy being 36 percent-56 percent of its dry weight, a bowl of soy can provide 28 grams of protein. The quality protein rich in soy aids in growth, repairs tissue, builds muscle, enables better metabolism, and renews cells, making it perfect to add to your child’s lunchbox. material becomes.
Soybeans are also an excellent source of vitamin C, folate, calcium, fiber, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium – all despite being low in saturated fat and carbohydrates. A half-cup of cooked soybeans contains about 21% of the Daily Value fiber, 25% of the Daily Value of iron, 14% of the Daily Value of calcium, and at least 9% of the Daily Value of 10 other essential vitamins and minerals. Simply put, a food that contains soy is healthier.
Soybean Recipe Ideas:
What makes soy an even more ideal ingredient is its versatility. Available in many forms, soya can be added to any recipe as it best suits the taste buds of one’s baby. Be it soyabean biryani or tofu crumble in a sandwich, lunch time can be both healthy and tasty. For kids with a sweet tooth, soy milk smoothie or soya flour pancakes with seasonal fruits are perfect additions to a balanced diet.
Adding one serving of soy-based foods per day — the equivalent of 6-7 grams of soy protein, ie 1 cup of soy milk or half a cup of cooked soybeans or 50-60 grams of tofu — is a good place to start.
So, parents, in this new school season, put your worries on the shelf and simply add this as the staple soy in your pantry.
About the Author: Khushboo Jain Tibrewala, is a leading Nutritionist and Health Strategist. She is also a supporter of Right to Protein initiative.
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