What are oats and how it can be incorporated into kids diet ?
Oats are a type of cereal grain that has been cultivated for thousands of years and are a staple food in many cultures around the world. Oats are commonly used as a breakfast food and are known for their high nutritional value. They are a great source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Oats come in several different forms, including rolled oats, steel-cut oats, and instant oats. Rolled oats, also known as old-fashioned oats, are the most commonly used variety. They are steamed and then flattened with large rollers to make them easier to cook. Steel-cut oats are chopped into small pieces, and instant oats are pre-cooked and then dried for quick and easy preparation.
Incorporating oats into a kid's diet is a great way to add nutrition and variety to their meals.
Here are some ideas:
- Oatmeal: The most common way to eat oats is as oatmeal. Cooked oatmeal can be flavored with various fruits, nuts, and sweeteners to make it more appealing to kids. For example, adding sliced bananas, cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey can make a bowl of oatmeal more flavorful and satisfying.
- Granola bars: Granola bars made with oats, nuts, and dried fruit are a great snack option for kids. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit individual tastes. You can mix together oats, nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and honey, then bake in the oven to create crunchy granola bars that kids will love. TruVitals Protein Mini bars are made up of oats, brown rice, jowar, nuts and seeds.
- Smoothies: Adding oats to a fruit smoothie can provide a nutritional boost and make the smoothie more filling. You can blend together a banana, some berries, yogurt, and a handful of oats to create a delicious and healthy breakfast smoothie that kids will enjoy.
- Baked goods: Oats can be used in baking, such as in muffins, pancakes, and cookies. You can add oats to a basic pancake or muffin batter to create a more nutritious and filling breakfast option. Oatmeal cookies are also a delicious and healthy treat that kids will love.
- Trail mix: A homemade trail mix that includes oats, nuts, and dried fruit can be a healthy and portable snack option for kids. You can mix together oats, almonds, raisins, and some dark chocolate chips to create a delicious and satisfying snack that kids can take with them on-the-go.
It’s important to be mindful of the portion sizes and make sure to balance out the oats with other healthy foods to ensure a well-rounded diet.
Also, check foods that can be incorporated in kids diet which has oats.