Many parents have been exploring the nutritional benefits of coconut milk for babies since it is a popular plant-based milk alternative. Of course, substituting coconut milk for breast milk or infant formula is a no-go. However, you may add a little coconut milk to the weaning baby’s or toddler’s diet. Coconut milk is obtained from mature coconut pulp. Its peculiar taste and creamy texture make it a common choice in savory and sweet recipes. Although it cannot substitute breastmilk, it has nutritional and therapeutic properties. Therefore, it is best to opt for fresh coconut milk prepared at home than canned coconut milk. Read on to know the benefits of coconut milk and some interesting recipes with coconut milk for babies and toddlers.
When Can You Introduce Coconut Milk To Your Infant?
Babies older than 12 months may have calcium-fortified coconut milk as the main drink (1). If you wish to introduce coconut milk sooner, adding it to the baby’s weaning food is suitable (2). You could try coconut milk-based cheese, yogurt and desserts for babies older than six months occasionally (3). In any case, consult a pediatrician before giving coconut milk to the baby.
Nutritional Value Of Coconut Milk
The nutritional composition and qualities of coconut milk vary depending on the quality of coconut pulp. Coconut milk sold as a dairy alternative, that is, a milk substitute, is fortified with nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D. One fluid ounce (30.5g) of coconut milk fortified with calcium, vitamins A, B12, and D offers the following nutrients (4) (5). Sources: US Department of Agriculture and World Health Organization Coconut milk is often considered an alternative for lactose intolerant babies. However, whether to use coconut milk for a baby is a decision you need to make with a pediatrician. Some other dairy alternatives are soy milk, rice milk, oats milk, almond milk, and hemp milk.
Possible Health Benefits Of Coconut Milk For Babies
Coconut milk has nutritional elements, such as medium-chain triglycerides and bioactive compounds that could benefit health over time (6) (7). Below are some notable benefits of coconut milk that a baby may reap. Besides these, coconut milk may also reduce inflammation and promote heart health over time.
Possible Side Effects Of Coconut Milk For Babies
Although coconut milk offers certain benefits, its use among babies is not promoted. One cup of coconut milk offers 0.51g of protein, which is significantly lower protein than whole cow milk, which contains 7.69g of protein (12). Also, coconut milk is high in saturated fat, which may fill your baby’s little tummy and suppress their appetite for breast milk or formula milk, and other foods. It will be a good idea to keep saturated fat intake to a minimum. Commercial coconut milk, usually sold as a milk substitute, is often diluted and may contain artificial sweeteners and thickeners (10). These compounds may not be good for the baby’s health, and parents might want to avoid. Coconut is also a potential allergen though the allergy is not as common. Note: If you wish to use coconut milk for cooking, use canned coconut milk specifically made for cooking purposes.
Precautions To Take While Using Coconut Milk For Babies
Here are some precautions to observe while using coconut milk for babies.
Healthy Coconut Milk Recipes For Babies And Toddlers
Below are some easy-to-prepare, healthy coconut milk recipes that can enhance the nutritional value of your baby’s diet.
1. Coconut milk puree (6 months+)
You will need:
¼ cup mango puree ¼ banana puree ½tsp dry fruit powder 2tbsp coconut milk
How to prepare:
2. Creamy lentil veggie curry (8 months+)
You will need:
50g red lentil (cooked) ½ cup corn kernels ½ carrot (peeled and finely chopped) ½ capsicum (finely chopped) 1 small onion(finely chopped) ½ cup coconut milk 1½ cup water 2tbsp olive oil
How to prepare:
3. Sago and coconut milk porridge (10 months+)
You will need:
¼ cup sago (washed, drained, and soaked) 1 cup coconut milk 1cup water 1tsp dry fruit powder ⅛ tsp cardamom powder
How to prepare:
4. Banana and coconut milk smoothie (12 months+)
You will need:
1 cup coconut milk 1 mashed banana ½tsp jaggery 1tsp dry fruit powder
How to prepare:
