Getting your child to eat anything you put in front of them is a serious feat. Not to mention the added worry of them reaching their recommended vitamin intake. However, fret not, hitting nutritional targets can be as easy Vitamins A, B, C…and D.
While many parents may know that Vitamin D and Calcium are important for children’s development, few are aware that they work most effectively when consumed together. Did you know, Vitamin D’s role in calcium absorption helps our little ones avoid brittle bones, weak muscles, and impaired nerves?[1]
But why do we need calcium? Well, it helps build and maintain healthy bones and supports various bodily functions such as blood clotting and muscle contraction. Superstar Vitamin D also plays a big role in our bone health, by promoting bone growth and strength, and helping calcium to work its magic. However, unfortunately for us in Blighty, the main source of Vitamin D is from the sun, which means it’s crucial we get it via our diets or supplements.
There is a reason it’s called the “sunshine vitamin” after all!
Fortunately, there are many food sources containing Vitamin D, including egg yolks, fatty-fish and fortified milk and cereals. And we all know that calcium can be found in dairy, tofu, soybeans, and many leafy vegetables to name but a few.
It’s all very well knowing where to find the vitamins, but most parents would agree that getting your child to eat them is the challenging part. This is where I’m here to help! I’ve partnered with Warburtons to develop some delicious and nutritious recipes to help your little one grow strong and healthy bones. Check out my three delicious, lunch-box friendly recipes below. I’ve also popped a few ideas below on Vitamin D and calcium food sources that you can refer back to for inspiration.
[1] Rutgers
High Calcium food sources:
- Fortified cereal
- Canned sardines in oil with edible bones
- Cheddar cheese
- Non-fat or low-fat milk
- Plain, low-fat, yogurt
- Soybeans
- Tofu
- Canned salmon in oil with edible bones
- Turnip greens, collards, kale, mustard greens
- Broccoli, cabbage, bok choy
- Black-eyed peas, black beans, dried beans
High Vitamin D food sources:
- Egg yolks
- Wild caught fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel)
- Fish liver oils
- Beef liver
- Fortified milk, orange juice, and soy milk
- Fortified cereal
VITAMIN D AND CALCIUM RICH RECIPES
Veggie Omelette Toasties
Kids’ energy levels flagging after school or nursery? Here’s my oh-so-simple omelette toastie recipe to have up your sleeve! Its super easy and even a great addition to your little ones lunchbox. Eggs have plenty of protein and when served in vitamin D and calcium enriched bread thins, they make for a cracking afternoon boost. Post Views: 238
Mini Ploughman’s Bento
Now here’s a funky twist on traditional pub grub! Take the humble Ploughman’s to the school canteen with my yummy bento box! Swap crusty bread for tasty thins enriched with Vitamin D and calcium, and cut everything up into little chunks for fun finger food! Simply pack up with a cut-up hard-boiled egg and apple slices for a truly British lunch. A little tip! To stop cut-up apple from browning, simply wrap a rubber band around the sliced apple put back together. Post Views: 296
