From the first time they smile to their first tooth, everything that happens to your baby should be documented as a milestone. Getting your baby off exclusive breastfeeding, and started on solids is a feat that you should get right at the first go.
The fact is solid food is not breast-milk. It has to contain all the elements that will make it nutritious, delicious and palatable for your baby. Another thing you need to know is if your baby is ready for it.
While doctors recommend that you feed your baby breast-milk for six months, some babies are ready to take solids sooner than that. So, how do you know when your baby is ready? There are some tell-tale signs that will give you an incline whether to start solid foods or not.
Some Signs your Baby is Ready
Good head and neck control
When the baby is able to sit up in a chair
They reach out for food
When they weigh twice their birth weight
Normally, when babies are not ready for solids, they do not have the ability to swallow. At this point, you see them push the baby cereal back with their tongues. When your baby is ready for solids, they gradually start to lose this tongue-thrusting reflex.
The moment you see these signs, you should know that your baby is ready for more than breast-milk.
How do you start?
One thing you need to remember is your baby’s health and nutrition are the priority. You can start out with iron-rich baby cereal. It is best you feed your baby the cereal with a baby spoon, rather than in a bottle.
No matter what, solid foods, or, cereal, should be fed after you breastfeed your baby. This way your baby still enjoys the goodies of breast-milk and at the same time, can get acquainted with solids.
You may be tempted to introduce veggies and other foods immediately after the first success. But, you need to wait and give these foods gradually. Sometimes your baby may be allergic to these new foods, and giving them all at once will not help you identify the allergen.
Another thing about giving your baby solid foods is you may need to serve it in small forms. There are a lot of great and nutritious recipes for your baby you can try. You may be itching to ask if you can give your baby fresh fruit juices.
Fruit juices are an absolute big no for babies. The reason is that they pose to be more harmful than good. Juices add extra calories and sugars without giving your baby the needed balanced nutrition.
In addition, drinking too much will cause diarrhea in babies, lead to tooth decay, and excess weight.
It’s That Simple
Breastfeeding your baby, although very beneficial, is tiring, especially if your baby nurses a lot at short intervals. If your baby is between 4-6 months, and 6 months to 1 year, giving solids is only meant to supplement breast-milk, not replace it.
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Mexican food is famous for its spices and flavors.
However, many people are confused about whether they can include Mexican food in a healthy lifestyle or not. Actually, there are plenty of misconceptions about Mexican cuisine.
In fact, healthy Mexican food options are many, and you can easily include certain dishes into your balanced diet.
In this article, you will learn about various healthy Mexican food options to include in your balanced diet. Apart from that, you will also get to know the health benefits of each item.
Moreover, this article will also explain why people commonly misunderstand Mexican food as unhealthy. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article.
A General Overview of Healthy Mexican Cuisine
The Mexican cuisine is famous for its rich flavors, diverse ingredients, and cultural significance. Hence, there are multiple healthy food options available as well.
Actually, a lot of Mexican food has a lot to teach us about nutrition. In fact, apart from the staple food items, there are quite a lot of additional factors to consider.
For example, there are some special healthy Mexican ingredients, including pumpkin, chia seeds, cactus, etc., which are quite popular among health-conscious people.
Apart from that, you will find a lot of vegetables in Mexican food. These include tomatoes, avocados, bell peppers, chili peppers, etc.
Hence, there is never a shortage of vitamins, minerals, and fibers. Additionally, many traditional Mexican food items include lean protein sources, like chicken, beans, and fish. Basically, you can use them as excellent options to maintain a healthy diet.
Why Is Mexican Food Often Misunderstood As Unhealthy?
Generally, the misconceptions about Mexican foods are due to the way many restaurants and food stalls prepare them in the US. For instance, you will frequently find high amounts of cream, cheese, and fried items on top of ingredients.
The following are some of the major reasons why many people misunderstand Mexican food as unhealthy:
Many Mexican restaurants in the US offer dishes that have large portions of sour cream, cheese, and deep-fried items. Hence, this increases your calorie count after consumption.
In many cases, Mexican dishes do not use lard. In fact, there are many healthier cooking options.
Restaurants generally serve large portion sizes of Mexican dishes. So, obviously, they contribute to overeating. Therefore, if you want to eat healthy at a Mexican restaurant, you might face difficulties.
When it comes to healthier food options, there are many dishes you can consider – legumes, grilled meats, vegetables, whole grains, etc. Basically, when you want to have Mexican food, you must make healthy choices.
For example, you must choose lean protein, grilled items, and control cheese and cream portions. This way, you can enjoy Mexican food even when you are maintaining a balanced diet.
15 Healthy Mexican Food Items And Their Health Benefits
The following are some of the best and healthy Mexican food items for you if you are on a balanced diet:
1. Beans
This is a staple source of fiber, protein, and iron for Mexicans. Apart from that, it also helps you to stay full.
Additionally, if you consume it on a regular basis, it will help you lower your cholesterol levels. Moreover, beans also help you to boost your heart health and help to maintain blood sugar levels.
2. Guacamole
The major health benefit of guacamole comes from avocados. Basically, avocadoes are monounsaturated fat and hence help to lower bad cholesterol. Also, since avocados have high fiber, it helps you to maintain your digestive tract.
Additionally, there is also no risk of colon cancer. Moreover, avocados also ensure eye health and skin health and prevent inflammation.
3. Salsa
Salsa is a good addition to your diet. With it, you can add more flavor to your food without adding excess sugar, salt, or additional fat.
Apart from that, it also contains various vitamins and minerals. In addition to that, salsa is also high in fiber and antioxidants. As a result, it will help you to remove harmful toxins from your body.
4. Grilled Chicken
Grilled chicken is a lean and high-quality protein option. Hence, it can help you to build and repair your muscle tissues.
Apart from that, it will help you to maintain a healthy immune system and facilitate muscle growth. In addition to that, lean chicken also improves your bone health and helps you fight infection in your body.
5. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Quesadillas
Basically, sweet potatoes are full of nutritional qualities. For instance, it is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Apart from that, they also add a little sweetness to the quesadillas.
As a result, it complements the earthy flavor of black beans. On the other hand, black beans come with a good amount of protein.
6. Vegetarian Enchiladas
When you make enchiladas with whole grain tortillas, vegetables, beans, and lean protein, you can control the calories. Basically, enchiladas offer you a balance of fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients.
Moreover, you can also boost your protein and vitamin intake if you want. However, one tortilla of vegetarian enchiladas contains 580 calories (approx.).
7. Brown Rice
Brown rice is primarily a whole grain which will help you reduce the risk of stroke or any other heart diseases. This is because of the presence of magnesium.
Moreover, it also helps in controlling blood sugar since brown rice has a lower glycemic index than white rice. Furthermore, vitamins and minerals also ensure a healthy immune system.
8. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are filled with vitamins and minerals. Also, when you grill vegetables, it reduces the amount of fat in vegetables. As a result, it becomes easier to digest. Moreover, with grilling, you can bring out the natural sweetness of vegetables.
9. Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice
If you want a low-calorie, grain-free carb, the cilantro lime cauliflower rice is a better option. Moreover, the recipe is vegan and gluten-free.
This can be a great alternative to traditional white rice. Apart from that, due to the presence of vitamins and minerals, it is a healthy Mexican food option.
10. Corn on the Cob
Due to its high fiber content, corn helps in maintaining bowel health and helps in preventing constipation.
Apart from that, corn also contains antioxidants, folate, potassium, and plant sterols. This will help you to lower cholesterol levels. Apart from that, it will also help you to support heart health.
11. Zucchini
Zucchini has high fiber and water content. This helps in the digestion process and reduces the risk of constipation. Additionally, since zucchini is low in carbs, it also helps you to regulate blood sugar levels.
12. Fresh Tomatoes
Generally, tomatoes contain potassium, which helps to regular blood pressure in the body. Moreover, since they release antioxidants, they can also help prevent cancer.
Additionally, if you consume a tomato-rich diet, you can ensure better digestion. Furthermore, you will have an improved immune system.
13. Shrimp Ceviche
Shrimp ceviche is healthy because it is high in protein content. Apart from that, it also comes with a good number of vitamins and minerals.
As a result, it not only helps to build muscles but also ensures bone health, immunity, and nerve function. Moreover, if you are following a low-calorie diet to lose weight, shrimp ceviche is a healthy Mexican food option.
14. Pozole
It is a stew that is rich in protein. Here, for each cup you consume, you get 18 grams of protein. Additionally, it also contains fiber.
However, you can add more fiber to it by adding vegetables like avocado or cabbage. This will help you to digest your food better.
15. Chicken And Vegetable Tacos
Since chicken is a lean source of protein, it provides amino acids for muscle building. Moreover, it is also a good source of vitamin B. On the other hand, vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Hence, with a combination of chicken and vegetables, you can have a healthy diet.
Try Your Favorite Healthy Mexican Food Now
Hence, you can see that there are plenty of healthy Mexican food options. However, this is not common in the US because most Mexican restaurants in this country serve Mexican food items with a lot of oil, spices, and cream.
Hence, it looks unhealthy to common people. Therefore, if you want to have a healthy Mexican diet, you have a lot of choices.
Do you have more suggestions on healthy Mexican food items? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below.
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Tips to Lose Weight Naturally
Everybody agrees that food is a crucial part of a person’s daily living and functioning. Without it, people will cease to exist. People built civilizations for the purpose of providing equal amounts of food to everyone.
In the ancient city of Mesopotamia, people settled close to the rivers and valleys that are known as the fertile crescent. These lands were considered ideal for growing crops such as wheat, barley, and corn.
Food is such a crucial building block in building the lives of people, critical enough that everyone must have primary access to it. In prosperous countries, food may not be a problem. For other impoverished and war-torn regions around the world, organizations such as “The World Food Programme” provide goods for people in those areas.
Read also: 5 Protein Enriched Food To Improve Mental Health
Now, a lot of people take for granted the fact that they can easily get anything to eat. Born out of this reality, is that people tend to eat unbalanced meals and become unhealthy in the way. It is an alarming trend that is evident in most developed countries. Due to the rising numbers of obesity and severe lifestyle-related diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.
However, eating behavior is not solely responsible for these worrying signs. The modern pacing of everyday life is one reason why people have distorted eating habits. The world in which we live requires people to be constantly on the go.
This concept means that a proper meal can rarely be present on the dining table. Fast food and other unhealthy options become the choice because 1, they are easy to buy, and 2, most of them appeal to a lot of taste buds.
Consuming pizza and the occasional country fried chicken isn’t that bad at all. In fact, it is encouraged that people should eat the food they love. There is a catch though. People should eat the food they love, in moderation. The famous saying “Too much of a good thing is already bad for you” was born out if this idea.
For a lot of people, eating right is the same as a prison sentence; sad, boring, and tough. However, proper knowledge in choosing the right food, amount, and its ways of preparation can remove that negative thought. For some, eating healthy is a hobby, as they enjoy being fit and satisfied at the same time. Here are some foods that people can eat to be physically and mentally fit.
Read also: Top 7 Superfoods For Healthy Skin And Hair
Fish
Deep sea dwelling fish such as tuna have essential oils called Omega-3 fatty acids. River fish like cod also rival the quality and quantity that tuna brings when it comes to producing omega-3 oil.
These oils are essential because they are high-density lipoproteins (HDL), a.k.a. “The Good Cholesterol.” HDL is responsible for absorbing and flushing away LDL or low-density lipoproteins, a.k.a. “Bad Cholesterol.” LDL causes plaque and buildup which in turn causes stroke and heart disease. Daily intake of cod liver oil and eating steamed fish can be great ways of getting the most omega-3 oil.
Protein
Protein is widely known as one of the building blocks of life. Protein is responsible for muscle growth and development. Sources of protein can come in a lot of ways: from chickens, cattle, pigs, and in some exotic cases, even insects provide protein. However, protein can contain high amounts of fat especially if they are not lean meat.
Lean Meat is the ideal source of protein. The best way to get protein out of a lean piece of meat is by correctly grilling it. Also, it aids in avoiding carcinogens due to overcooking.
Read also: 13 Best Herbs That Boost Your Metabolism
Leafy Greens
A famous cartoon character with the name Popeye encouraged many kids to eat spinach for a good reason. Spinach and other leafy greens contain high levels of folic acid that are responsible for that feeling of well-being. Dubbed as “glow foods” these veggies provide a lot of vitamins that boost immunity from most illnesses.
A lot of vegetables can even be eaten raw, provided that they are washed thoroughly due to the presence of insects and pesticides.
Takeaway
Contrary to popular belief, Food is what makes the world go round. Essential nutrition and a healthy lifestyle are the keys to a happy individual. There are some cases that diet and exercise cannot sustain the needs of males and females.
In such cases, males can take supplements that come from reputable sources like omgbrah.com to provide those essential nutrients. Females also have supplements like "opti-women" which also give women those vitamins.
Fad diets are always trying to do something new, promising to improve your health the way no diet ever has before. Often, if these diets aren’t just trying to sell you something, their principles are based on ‘bro science’ or common nutrition myths.
The truth is that we don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Many cultures around the world have been eating well for millennia, striking the right balance between all the necessary components of a good diet.
Today, we’re looking at China's approach to food, which has captured the attention of both food enthusiasts and health experts globally. And with nearly half of Americans actively trying to lose weight, according to this study by ValuePenguin, the timing couldn’t be better. Let’s delve into why the Chinese diet is celebrated as one of the healthiest in the world.
A Balanced Approach
At the heart of the Chinese diet lies a profound emphasis on equilibrium. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the belief in harmonizing the body's yin and yang energies is at the core of well-being. This holistic philosophy extends gracefully to the realm of cuisine, where achieving balance in one's diet is regarded as a bedrock principle.
Chinese culinary traditions beautifully exemplify this equilibrium, artfully integrating a spectrum of tastes, textures, and culinary techniques. The result is a culinary experience that engages all five essential flavors – sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami.
Staples of the Chinese Diet
Every good meal needs a healthy foundation, and this is something the Chinese have been nailing forever. Rice or wheat is usually the most common base of nutritious meals. Furthermore, these grains provide a steady source of carbohydrates, ensuring sustained energy throughout the day. Unlike processed and refined grains, Chinese cuisine favors whole grains, preserving essential nutrients and fiber.
In addition to grains, vegetables play a central role in Chinese cooking. A variety of leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and seasonal produce brighten up Chinese dinner tables, offering a wealth of vitamins and minerals. These vegetables are often gently cooked or stir-fried, preserving their nutritional value. The inclusion of vegetables also ensures a high fiber content in the diet, supporting digestive health and promoting a sense of fullness.
Fish, poultry, tofu, and legumes are common in Chinese cuisine, with these protein options often being preferred over red meat. Fish, in particular, provides valuable omega-3 fatty acids, renowned for their heart-protective properties. This combination of protein and veggies has helped China claim the top spot in this Compare the Market study of the world’s healthiest diets.
Embracing Seasonal and Local Ingredients
The Chinese diet's healthiness shines through its emphasis on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, aligning with traditional beliefs of harmony with nature. Seasonal foods offer peak flavor and nutrition while reducing the need for preservatives and long transportation.
Furthermore, the Chinese diet integrates traditional wisdom into its culinary practices. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) introduces the idea of food as medicine, with specific ingredients chosen for their restorative and strengthening effects.
For instance, ginger helps to combat colds and enhance digestion. On the other hand, goji berries have the power to boost the immune system. This blend of ancient knowledge with food choices contributes to the diet's reputation as one of the healthiest globally.
Portion Control and Mindful Eating
In addition to the quality and variety of foods, portion control and mindful eating practices are integral to the Chinese diet. Usually, meals are nothing less than family-style, with multiple dishes in the center of the table. This communal dining style encourages moderation and mindful consumption. By serving food in smaller portions and sharing, it becomes easier to control calorie intake and prevent overeating.
Furthermore, the Chinese approach to eating is full of mindfulness. Eating slowly, savoring each bite, and paying attention to the flavors and textures of food are common practices. This not only enhances the dining experience but also allows the body to register satiety more accurately.
Mindful eating promotes a deeper connection between the mind and body, reducing the risk of overindulgence and promoting overall well-being. If you’d like to try it yourself, Headspace has this free useful guide you can read.
The Changing Approach Towards Chinese Diet
The Chinese have a reputation for consuming a lower aggregate diet, which eventually impacts their later development. People belonging to some of the rural civilizations think it might be unfair to ask people to give up on meat completely. In countries like Brazil and China, the consumption of meat is a sign of economic as well as social progress.
There is an increasing demand for vegan food as well. A maximum of the total population wants to switch to a healthier alternative, keeping health concerns in mind. This has continued to have a positive impact on both their physical and mental well-being. Fat-free beverages, green vegetables, and more fruits and beans are now included in a traditional Chinese diet.
As a result, there is an increase in the number of healthy babies produced every year. Individuals tend to have better immunizations against diseases, and they typically live longer. Health experts say while this might not be the result of health consumption solely, food certainly has an enhanced effect on overall well-being.
Wrap-Up
The Chinese diet, with its emphasis on balance, staple foods, seasonal and local ingredients, and mindful eating, serves as a model for optimal health. Its diverse array of flavors, ingredients, and deep-rooted wisdom makes it a blueprint for healthy eating practices.
By embracing the principles of the Chinese diet, from moderation to variety, and the incorporation of fresh, individuals worldwide can take strides toward improving their health. Unprocessed ingredients are the key to remaining healthy and strong.
While no single diet is a magic solution, the Chinese approach to food offers valuable insights into maintaining a nutritious and balanced lifestyle that contributes to longevity and vitality. If you are diet-conscious, ensure to integrate the aforementioned tips to make your lifestyle better and healthier. Thank you for reading!
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