Iron Rich Snacks for Kids

Iron deficiency, also known as anemia, is a problem not only among adults, but also in kids. If the kids do not get the required amount of iron from their diet, then they become anemic. Hence, it is important to include iron rich food in their diet. Although most of the baby foods available is fortified with iron, the quantity of iron in these foods is not sufficient for the kids. If you notice that the kid is irritated all the time or is lethargic, then may be he is suffering from anemia. Not only should the meals be rich in iron, but the snacks that the kids eat should also be rich in iron. This brings us to which are the iron rich snacks for kids. Let's find out.

Iron Rich Food List for Kids

Before we turn to see some iron rich recipes, we will see, which are the iron rich foods. Some of these foods can be given to the kids as they are, while some others will have to be combined with other foods.

Apricots: This is my own favorite iron rich food. It is not only rich in iron, but is also a great source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Either let the kids have the crunchy snack as they are or combine it with milk or yogurt to make milkshake or smoothie respectively. They can also be added to their breakfast cereals. They can also be added to salads to increase the nutritive value of the salad.

Raisins: Raisins are not only rich in iron, but they are also a good source of antioxidants and fiber. They are also rich in complex carbohydrates, which is a good source of energy. They can be given to kids in the small single serving boxes. Combining peanuts with raisins is also a great idea for an iron rich snack.

Figs: Like raisins, figs are also a rich source of energy. They can be given to kids as they are or they can also be combined with different fruits. Making fig milk shake or smoothie is also a good idea to give iron rich 'interesting' snack to kids.

Jaggery: As a kid I loved snacking on jaggery snack. My mother always gave me a pocketful of jaggery and peanuts. The crunchy peanuts with the sweetness of jaggery makes for a wonderful snack. Alternately, it is a healthy option as a dessert as well.

Roast Pumpkin and Squash Seeds: If your kids like crunchy snacks, then this is a great iron rich snack option. They can also be given to kids, when they are going to school or also when they are going for a overnight camp.

Carrots: It is not new knowledge that carrots are one of the best finger foods. Cutting the carrots in various attractive shape will help in drawing attention of the kids to the iron rich food. Alternately, you can choose to make carrot juice or carrot salad as well.

Beetroot: Like carrots, beetroot can also be used as finger food not only for kids, but also for adults. Either make a salad using carrots or make a juice with it. Alternately, beetroot can also be used in sandwiches, where the beetroot will get camouflaged, yet makes its way into the young tummies.

Soybeans: From ¾ cup of soybeans, you can derive about 6.5 mg of iron. The beans can either be had boiled or roasted or sprouted. They can also be added to the salad to add variety to the salad.

Sesame Seeds: Although one can have sesame seeds, as they are, most kids will not appreciate the aftertaste, hence it is best to combine the seeds with other seeds. Making a mixture of a number of seeds together will give the kids the required nutrition.

Spinach: All of us are aware that spinach is rich source of iron. It can be consumed in a number of ways. Soups, salads, sandwiches, puffs, etc., can be made using spinach.

Using the different iron rich foods, you can also come up with iron rich recipes for kids. Adding different spices and condiments to the iron rich foods will ensure that the kids enjoy their nutritious snack. Other than the vegetarian options, red meat, clams, oysters, tuna, egg, etc., can also be used to make some yummy iron rich snacks. So that the kids do not get bored, you can try a variety of recipes by combining different iron rich foods.