Dr. Shivangi bora
Dr. Shivangi Bora is a consultant paediatrician and neonatologist at Dr Shivangi Bora (Dey) Clinic, Bengaluru
What calcium-rich, dairy-free foods can I give my five-year-old son? I’ve read that lactose intolerance is rising in urban children.
— Hanitha Arvind, Hyderabad
Food intolerance and allergies are common in children. Therefore, instead of avoiding foods, parents need to introduce children to different types of food early to prevent gut intolerance. While it’s true that lactose intolerance is rising in urban children, it’s often misdiagnosed by parents. I highly recommend that parents confirm the diagnosis by an allergist or paediatrician to prevent children from being deprived of foods rich in calcium and Vitamin D, essential for their growth and development. Lactose-intolerant children can try plant-based milk products like soy, almond milk, yogurt, as well as nuts, figs, ragi, egg, cheese and meat, which are rich in calcium.
Water quality in metro cities is going from bad to worse. What precautions should I take when preparing formula milk or giving water to my infant?
— Sheila Rohit, Bengaluru
The chances of tap water contamination with infectious agents are high. Use a good water purifier system to eliminate contaminants. However, the good old system of boiling water by the conventional “rolling boil” method for 10 minutes in a clean steel pot is also a good option. Moreover, I advise using a TDS (total dissolved solids) meter to check the concentration of minerals, salts, and organic matter and regularly cleaning overhead tanks, especially during monsoons.
How can I safely introduce mild flavors to my two-year-old daughter without causing digestive problems?
— Deena Thomas, Chennai
There is no restriction on introducing various food flavors to children. Problems in digestion usually arise with hyperselectivity. Start by introducing home food to your daughter, gradually increasing choice and variety. However, avoid feeding her honey and salt until 12 months and processed sugars until she is two years old. Also, no tea or coffee.
How can I teach my six-year-old son to practise food portion control to prevent obesity?
— Harish Singhal, Delhi
You need to educate him about appropriate food portion sizes and the benefits of eating enough, not too little or too much. To train him, you could make food quantity-specific statements such as, “Two biscuits are enough,” and “Do you think you want to eat one egg and a dosa or two dosas with sambar?” Offer food options that communicate your sense of portion size. Don’t stock junk food at home, such as chips and biscuits. Prohibit children from eating meals/snacks while watching TV, mobile phones or playing video games, as screen time distracts and promotes overeating. Most importantly, encourage healthy eating habits and physical exercise for overall well-being.
Also Read: Intelligent parenting for sugar-free living
