Dalia (Broken Wheat) For Babies: Health Benefits

The correct time to introduce Dalia to babies is when they turn 8 months old while some parents may choose to introduce it in the later months too. Chewing Dalia should be proper to avoid digestive issues. Later than that though, the digestion is proper, and the baby can get the most benefits from its consumption.

Top 10 Health Benefits of Broken Wheat For Babies

Any parent before starting solids for the baby tries to find out its health benefits. Dalia as a sumptuous meal offers many advantages to babies.

1. The baby’s appetite increases as they start having Dalia.
2. Dalia is fulfilling and nutritious and keeps the hunger pangs away.
3. It is a better option than giving flour-based or rice dishes as they are not as filling as Dalia.
4. Dalia or broken wheat is an excellent source of different types of minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, etc.
5. All the minerals present in broken wheat help with the healthy growth and development of the baby both physically and mentally.
6. The fiber content in dalia along with its nutrient value is also very rich. It offers strength to the digestive system of the baby and even increases the metabolism.
7. Dalia has anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing constipation in babies.
8. The iron content in Dalia helps to keep the baby energetic and even protects the child from being anemic.
9. Its high-protein value helps in increasing the muscle mass in babies.
10. Regular consumption of Dalia for babies helps to keep infections away and makes them healthy.

[Read : Tasty Quinoa Recipes For Babies And Its Health Benefits]

Precautions to Take While Feeding Dalia to the Babies

Dalia is a storehouse of nutrients and minerals and is very vital for the growth and development of the baby. Yet, a few precautions for its safe consumption are very important as well. Some of them are

• The quality of Dalia should always be a priority.
• It needs to be sourced from a reputed store with proper packaging.
• Dalia needs a thick, soup-like consistency.
• It must be washed thoroughly and cooked well.

The dish should be lump-free so that the baby can easily chew and digest.

• Once broken wheat is introduced to the babies, you must wait for three to five days before repeating it for your baby, since it is loaded with nutrients and may be difficult to digest.
• In order to check allergies, sensitivity, or any intolerance, it is better to observe its reaction on the baby’s digestive system.
• While feeding broken wheat to the baby, no other new food must be given
• Always start by introducing broken wheat to the baby in very small quantities (1-2 teaspoons) for a few days.
• After the baby gets habituated to the texture, taste, and digestion, the quantity can be gradually increased.
• After trying single wheat Dalia, multigrain Dalia which is a mix of different grains can be tried as well.
• Some babies can show signs of intolerance or being sensitive. In such a case, the consumption of Dalia should be discontinued.
• Gluten which leads to many allergies is a main component of Dalia. In case the baby has gastric issues or any other allergies, it is best to consult a health expert before introducing Dalia into the baby’s diet.

[Read : The 3-Day Wait Rule For Babies To Introduce Solids]

Side Effects of Feeding Broken Wheat to Babies

Although Dalia is a powerhouse of nutrition, some side effects are worth considering.

• Loaded with nutrients, it is heavy to digest, leading to stomach ache and diarrhea.
• If the Dalia has lumps, it can choke the baby which is dangerous.
• Since it is loaded with fiber, excessive consumption can lead to weight loss in babies.
• Gluten in broken wheat results in gastric issues for the baby, leading to discomfort for them.

How to Prepare Dalia For Babies?

Dalia is used to preparing many healthy recipes which are different from each other. You can enhance the nutritional value by adding nuts, dry fruits, vegetables, ghee, etc. Some ways to prepare Dalia for your little one are

1. Vegetable Dalia Khichdi is ideal for a 7-month-old baby.
2. Lapsi or Dali Halwa can be given to an 8-month-old baby.
3. Dalia Upma is ideal for a 10-month-old baby.
4. Cued Dalia can be to a one-year-old baby.
5. Sweet Dalia porridge is given to a 2-year-old baby.

Dalia, no doubt, is a superfood given to babies to make them healthy and strong. It is nutritious but may not be suitable for all. When in doubt, consult your paediatrician before giving dalia to your little one. After introduction, wait for 2 to 3 days and check for allergic or adverse reactions. Wait for 3-4 days before repeating a dalia meal for your little one.

[Read : Health Benefits Of Oats For Babies]

FAQ’s

1. What Happens if Dalia is Regularly Consumed?

If dalia is consumed regularly, its fiber content keeps the baby full and helps in keeping hunger pangs away. This also helps the baby to not keep eating every time. It also keeps the baby healthy due to its nutritional value.

2. What Happens in Case of Excessive Consumption of Dalia?

Gluten present in dalia can result in bloating, gastric disorders, constipation and vomiting. Dalia has many other nutrients and minerals and is heavy to digest. Its excessive consumption can result in many health issues.

3. Can Dalia be the First Solid Food For the Baby?

Dalia from broken wheat is not the first food choice for babies. This is because wheat is an allergic food and heavy to digest as well. It is best to introduce it after the baby is 8 months or more.

4. What Symptoms to Watch For in the Baby if Dalia Does Not Suit Them?

If the child develops an allergy by the consumption of dalia, some signs that will show are rashes, swelling, itching, stomach ache, vomiting, wheezing, diarrhea, etc.

Read Also: Millet for Babies – Everything You Need To Know