Lemon is a citrus fruit and a vital vitamin C source. It is known for its refreshing flavor and scent. Due to the benefits of lemon for babies, parents consider adding it as a supplementary component while preparing their drinks or foods, but some doubt whether it is safe enough to do so. Lemon contains high quantities of bioactive compounds and is considered a healthy option in several home remedies. Including lemon in your regular diet could boost your immune system, make your skin healthy, and enhance iron absorption. This post shares some details about the health benefits, safety, and appropriate ways to include lemon in your baby’s diet.
When Can Babies Have Lemons?
It is generally recommended to introduce citrus fruits to babies after about six months of age (1) (2). You may consider adding lemons after the age of eight months, which is when other citrus fruits, such as oranges, are included in a baby’s diet (3). Some parents consider waiting up to the age of 12 months due to the high acidity of citrus fruits (4). You may consult a pediatrician to know the best age to introduce lemons to your little one. Though rare, allergy to lemons exists (5). However, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, there is no reason to delay feeding foods considered allergens (6). These foods can be added to the baby’s diet with other non-allergenic foods. But if your baby tends to display allergic reaction or intolerance to new foods, is allergic to other citrus fruits, or has a family history of allergies, then do not introduce lemons without consulting a doctor.
Nutritional Value Of Lemon
Lemons provide several essential nutrients, such as vitamin C, minerals, dietary fibers, and phytochemicals, such as carotenoids and phenolic acids (7) (8). One fluid ounce (31g) of freshly squeezed, 100 percent lemon juice offers the following nutrients in comparison to the daily recommended intake for each nutrient (9) (10) (11) (12). *AI = Adequate intake – nutrient level considered to ensure nutritional adequacy Sources: U.S. Department of Agriculture, World Health Organization, and Oregon State University
Possible Health Benefits Of Lemon For Babies And Toddlers
Here are some significant health benefits of lemon juice a baby could reap over time.
Possible Side Effects Of Lemon For Babies And Toddlers
Avoid feeding undiluted lemon juice to babies and toddlers. Lemon may not have any side effects in a healthy child if taken in small quantities diluted in water, or in some recipes. Otherwise, below are some potential side effects of lemon consumption among babies and toddlers. Some babies may display mild oral rash or gastric disturbances on the first consumption of lemons. These are not signs of allergy. Once the body adapts to the new food, these disturbances will be gone. However, if the baby displays signs of severe intolerance or allergy, then stop feeding lemons and consult a pediatrician.
Useful Tips To Buy And Store Lemons
Here are some tips for the proper selection and storage of lemon.
Selection tips
Storage tips
Ways To Include Lemon In The Baby’s Diet
You can add lemon to your baby and toddler’s diet in several ways. You can also use lemon juice to marinate foods, such as meat and vegetables, and prepare tasty grilled finger foods.
Homemade Lemonade Recipe
Commercial lemonade contains refined sugar and additives. To avoid these, you can prepare homemade lemonade for children above one year of age. Do not serve more than four fluid ounces (120ml) per day (23). Here is a simple homemade lemonade recipe that you can try. You will need:
½ tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice oz. (120ml) plain water ½ tsp mint leaves (finely chopped) ½ tsp jaggery powder/ brown sugar
How to:
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