(Each year we count the days leading up to the Receiving of the Torah - - and to partaking in an array of mouth-watering dairy foods. While dairy foods are highlighted on Shavuot, dairy products deserve out attention all year round! )
We are all well aware that children are notorious for not eating well and being fussy (especially between the ages of one and five years old). Dairy is an essential part of a balanced diet as it contains many important nutrients including protein, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, zinc and B vitamins and luckily most children enjoy dairy products! The most important benefits of dairy for children are: bone health and teeth health, hydration (milk not only re-hydrates the body, but provides many beneficial nutrients and protects the teeth at the same time!) and the prevention of obesity. If your child is not eating dairy, it is essential that s/he takes a calcium supplement. Non-dairy milks (soya, rice, oat) are available; If your child is using these as a dairy alternative, ensure that you choose a calcium fortified option. Here's a delicious healthy fruit smoothie that is simple to make and packed with nutrients! Ingredients: 100ml Milk • 125ml yoghurt • 1 cup Fruit (e.g. Strawberries, Pineapple, Melon, Banana) • 2 Tbs Oat bran • ½ tsp Vanilla Essence • 2 tsp Honey • 2 Tbs Crushed Ice. Place all of the Ingredients in blender and blend until smooth. Lauri Isserow is a Paediatric Dietican. She can be contacted atlauri@issies.com or 082 822 7107.