The right nutrition for children has never been as important as it is today. Due to the many negative social and environmental influences, the list of widespread developmental disorders and illnesses - such as hyperactivity, behavioral problems, asthma, neurodermatitis, ENT problems, obesity, allergies or concentration and sleep disorders - is long. To compensate for all this, children need a balanced diet with fresh food that is easy to digest and is eaten in a loving atmosphere with the family.
In this sense, parents not only provide for the physical well-being of their offspring, but also nourish the soul: from the moment of conception, the growing child reacts sensitively to the substantial and energetic state of health of the mother and father: the healthier, more relaxed and happier the parents were at the time of conception, the more stable and resilient the growing child's constitution and health will develop.
This is how the classical Ayurveda scriptures "Kaumarabhrtya" describe it, in which the authors Caraka and Sushruta have dedicated a separate chapter to child nutrition.
Here they recommend easily digestible foods that do not increase kapha (phlegm) and increase ojas (vital energy). This property is found above all in the combination of milk and cereals with restorative spices and herbs - such as saffron, fennel seeds or dried amla fruit. However, if the child suffers from ear, nose and throat problems or skin diseases, milk should be reduced and supplemented with soy or rice milk products.
The consumption of yoghurt, cheese, sausage and meat - especially in the evening and in combination with tomatoes or fruit - is detrimental to every child. This has a particularly negative effect on the metabolism (Agni) and the circulatory system (Srotas) due to its blocking and mucilaginous quality.
As our children today also suffer from many stress and environmental illnesses, more attention should also be paid to the psychological balance of the adolescent. Classical Ayurvedic pediatrics recommends a vegetarian diet with plenty of vegetables, grains, fruits, nuts, pulses and high-quality fats. Adequate intake of nourishing nutrients in particular stabilizes physical and emotional balance. This makes the regular consumption of lentil and bean stews together with potatoes, cereals or bread essential for a meat-free but wholesome diet for children.
Three steps to a healthy diet for children
