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Once your baby turns 4 months and sprouts her first pearly whites, it is ideal to introduce semi-solids to your baby. Because babies need a lot of nutrients to develop properly, and their tiny tummies do not allow them to eat much, it is essential that you start their solid’s journey with nutrient dense and growth inducing foods. One such nutritious and highly versatile food is barley – and babies can benefit from this food in the form of barley water.
Barley may sound to you the food of yesteryears, but the fact is that it is one of the most nutritious grain with immense health benefits. It is an excellent source of protein, folate and fiber and contains minerals like potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, sodium and iron. It is easily digestible and so makes up a great first food for the baby. Barley is also non-allergenic – unless your baby has a history of celiac disease or gluten allergy.
Barley can be introduced to your baby between 4-6 months of age. It can be blended into a soup like consistency, and can even make for a great finger food – given its shape. Please do remember that the recommended age to introduce solids to your baby is 6 months.
For babies, always purchase hulled or pearled barley. Though hulled barley has more nutrition than pearled barley, pearled barley gets easily cooked and is widely available. Both pearled and hulled barley can be used to prepare baby food, and they tend to fluff to the size of a pea. It is also easy to store pearled barley – it can be stored for several months in a cool, dry place, however, if you use hulled barley make sure you check it before cooking. If you are grounding the barley yourself, watch out for the natural oils that may make it rancid too soon without refrigeration. Barley contains gluten, so make sure you discuss it with your doctor before offering it to your baby.
Barley water serves as a great weaning food for your baby, and given its benefits, it will surely help your baby grow and develop. When making barley water for your baby, you need to continuously whisk it to avoid lumps.
Recipe Type: Baby food Category water Age: 4+ months Cook Time: 60-75 Minutes Prep Time: 30 Minutes
A tablespoon Barley powder
2 cups pure drinking water
As a general rule, add 1/2 cup of barley to 2 cups of water
A spoon of barley can turn to more than a cup of cooked barley, so use it accordingly.
Notes
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