Ragi for Babies: Benefits, Nutrition & Recipes

Ragi for Babies: Ragi, also called Finger millet, is the most widely consumed grain in parts of South India and several parts of Africa. It contains high dietary fibre and calcium, and for this reason, it is considered a supergrain for those trying to lose some weight. Moreover, ragi is highly advantageous for individuals with diabetes and is a fundamental component of South Indian baby food, as it supports digestion and promotes bone development in infants due to its significant calcium and iron levels.

What Is Ragi?

Scientifically known as Eleusine coracana, the millet is ragi, and it is mostly grown in Asian and African wherein it is grown. It’s a tiny reddish-brown grain with a mild taste that can be flavoured sweet or savoury. In India, ragi has been a native for quite some time, especially in southern states, where it was highly appreciated for its nutritional qualities as well as for its multipurpose nature. Ragi has almost similar nutrient content to various grains and hence is an ideal source of calcium, iron, proteins, and fibre in a vegetarian’s diet.

Ragi Nutritional Value (per 100g)

Ragi includes lots of Macro vitamins together with carbohydrates, fibres, fats and protein and plenty of micronutrient contents consisting of vitamins and minerals. Little or no cholesterol or sodium content makes it a friendly food for the heart and the immune-boosting vitamins C & E for skin and hair. Among the impressive list of nutrients, it contains all the B-complex vitamins, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, and thus the preferred choice for a healthy breakfast cereal and for a ‘Super food’.

Nutritional values for 100 grams of ragi flour are as follows:

Ragi is an Indian staple meals that is rich in fibre and may be used as an alternative to different cereal and grain crops. It is a wealthy supply of critical amino acids which might be hardly located in vegetation; therefore, it’s useful for vegetarians and vegans.

Health Benefits Of Ragi For Babies

Ragi, also known as finger millet, is one of the most nutritious grains for babies. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, it is an excellent first food for infants. Ragi is gluten-free, easy to digest, and helps in overall growth and development.

Here’s a detailed look at the many health benefits of ragi for babies:

1. Excellent Bone and Teeth Strength due to Very High Calcium:

Iron-fortified. Good for boosting iron levels and preventing anemia; the absorption of non-heme iron depends on the enhancer. It is fermented with yeast and lactic acid bacteria. It decreases the absorption of non-heme iron, the absorption of which is ligated by phytates. It enhances the bioavailability of essential minerals and vitamins.

2. Excellent for Boosting Iron Levels and Preventing Anemia

Iron deficiency is a common problem among infants and toddlers, often resulting in fatigue, loss of appetite, and developmental delays. The high iron content in ragi helps address these problems by supporting better red blood cell production in the body and overall improved energy levels. Also, it contains vitamin C, which helps in the absorption of iron. Therefore, it is an ideal food to eliminate anemia among little ones.

3. Aids in Digestion and Prevents Constipation

Ragi is high in dietary fiber, which improves digestion and helps cure constipation. Ragi eliminates any digestion-related issues and is one of the highly recommended foods at this stage as the digestive system of a baby is still in a developing state. Ragi is also rich in fiber, which helps to regulate bowel movements and maintain gut health.

4. Boosts Immunity and Fights Infections

Similarly, ragi also has natural antioxidants, vitamins, and essential amino acids in them that helps in boosting the baby’s immune system. It also enhances babies resistance to infections, colds and other ailments by fortifying their immunity.

5. Gluten-Free – Ideal for Babies with Allergies

Unlike wheat and other grains, ragi is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for babies who may have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. It is a safe and nutritious choice for babies who are just starting on solids.

6. Promotes Healthy Weight Gain

For babies who are underweight, ragi is an excellent food to help with healthy weight gain. It is packed with complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy without unhealthy fats. Regular consumption of ragi helps babies gain weight naturally without the risk of obesity.

7. Energy-Boosting Superfood

Ragi is loaded with complex carbohydrates, which generate energy that lasts longer in the system. This is vital for active babies as it helps to sustain energy levels throughout the day, providing constant supplies without big spikes in blood sugar.

8. Aids in Brain Development

Ragi is rich in all eight essential amino acids, iron and B-complex vitamins all of which are crucial for brain development. It’s very beneficial for memory growth, cognitive enhancement, and true brain development which makes it an excellent brain-boosting food for babies.

9. Good for Heart Health

Phytochemicals and antioxidants present in ragi reduce bad cholesterol levels. It promotes heart function and supports blood circulation in children.

10. Helps in Managing Diabetes Risk

The glycemic index of Ragi is low, so it releases sugar into the blood gradually which helps in preventing sudden rise in blood sugar levels. This makes it an excellent time frame to instill healthy eating habits that help decrease the chances of diabetes in the future.

Also Read: 15 Benefits Of Ragi Flour You Should Know

How to Include Ragi in a Baby’s Diet?

Ragi can be introduced into a baby’s diet in various delicious and easy-to-digest forms;

• Ragi Porridge – A simple and nutritious first food for babies.
• Ragi Malt – A refreshing and energy-boosting drink.
• Ragi Pancakes – A soft and healthy breakfast option.
• Ragi Idli/Dosa – Fermented foods that improve digestion.
• Ragi Cookies – A great snack option for toddlers.

Best Ragi Powder For Babies

Featured

Sprouted Ragi Powder

Rated 4.82 out of 5

4.8 (11)

Fast Delivery

₹190.00

Add to Cart

Looking for a quick and healthy option? Try our instant porridge for babies.

Ragi Recipes for Babies

If you are new to ragi, you may find it difficult when you taste it for the first time. If you learn to like its taste, you’ll stay healthy as you age.

1. Ragi Porridge for Babies (6+ months)

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons ragi flour
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup breast milk or formula (optional)
• Pinch of jaggery powder (for babies 8+ months)

Instructions

1. Mix ragi flour with a little water to form a smooth paste without lumps
2. Boil the remaining water in a pan
3. Add the ragi paste while stirring continuously
4. Cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently
5. Let it cool and add breast milk or formula if desired
6. Strain if needed for younger babies

2. Ragi Banana Puree (7+ months)

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons cooked ragi porridge
• 1 small ripe banana
• 2-3 tablespoons breast milk or formula

Instructions

1. Prepare basic ragi porridge as above
2. Mash the banana thoroughly
3. Mix banana with cooled ragi porridge
4. Add milk to achieve desired consistency
5. Serve fresh

3. Ragi Apple Mash (8+ months)

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons ragi flour
• 1 small apple (peeled and chopped)
• 1 cup water
• Pinch of cinnamon powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Steam or boil apple pieces until soft
2. Prepare ragi porridge with water
3. Mash the cooked apple and mix with ragi porridge
4. Add cinnamon if desired
5. Blend smooth for younger babies

Tips:

• Always introduce ragi gradually, starting with small amounts
• Ensure the consistency is appropriate for your baby’s age
• Add familiar fruits or vegetables to enhance taste
• Store any leftover ragi flour in an airtight container
• Freshly prepare each serving when possible

Start with simple preparations and gradually introduce new flavors as your baby gets comfortable with ragi.

Best Time to Give Ragi For Babies

Ragi is a highly nutritious grain and an excellent first food for babies. However, knowing the best time to introduce and serve ragi is essential to ensure proper digestion and maximum health benefits.

When to Start Giving Ragi to Babies?

• Once your baby starts solids which is usually at 6 months, you can begin introducing ragi to your baby.
• Home-made food for babies should start with a small amount, like ragi porridge and should be gradually increased according to baby’s acceptance and digestion.
• The 3-day rule applies and always check for allergies and tummy upsets before introducing it regularly.

Best Time of the Day to Give Ragi

• Morning (Best Option): Provides energy and aids digestion. Ideal for breakfast or mid-morning.
• Afternoon (Good Option): Can be given for lunch in moderate amounts.
• Night (Not Recommended): May cause bloating as it takes time to digest.

How Often Can You Give Ragi to Babies?

• Start with 2-3 times a week and observe your baby’s digestion.
• Once the baby gets used to ragi, you can give it every alternate day.
• Avoid excessive consumption to prevent digestion issues like bloating or gas.

Things to Keep in Mind While Giving Ragi to Babies

• Introduce ragi slowly – First try finely sieved porridge and only then try different ragi recipes.
• Choose sprouted ragi – Sprouted ragi is more easily digestible and contains more nutrients.
• Observe for allergies – In rare cases, some babies can develop ragi intolerance.
• Stay hydrated – Since ragi is rich in fiber, make sure the baby drinks sufficient fluids.

Enhance your baby’s diet with our sprouted ragi powder.

Disadvantages of Ragi for Babies

Ragi, or finger mille­t, is often the first solid food for babies. It’s a favorite­ because it’s chock-full of good nutrients like­ calcium, iron, and fibre. But remembe­r, ragi has some drawbacks for the tiny ones too:

1. Digestive Challenges

Ragi, rich in fibre, may strain a baby’s ge­ntle stomach. It can cause bloating, gas, or eve­n diarrhoea. This is more common for babies e­ating solid foods for the first time.

2. Constipation Risk

Fibre is usually he­lpful for digestion, but its excess isn’t. Ove­reating ragi might sometimes cause­ constipation in babies, particularly if they aren’t ge­tting enough water.

3. Allergy Concerns

Occasionally, certain babie­s might show signs of ragi allergies. Kee­p an eye out for symptoms like skin re­dness, scratchy feelings, puffine­ss, throwing up, or tummy troubles. Staying vigilant when trying out new foods is always important.

4. Reduced Nutrient Absorption

Ragi contains naturally occurring compounds called phytates, which can interfere with the absorption of certain minerals like iron and calcium. Although cooking, soaking, or fermenting ragi can reduce these levels, it’s something parents should keep in mind.

5. Timing Matters

Introducing ragi too early—before the recommended age of six months—can overwhelm a baby’s still-developing digestive system, potentially leading to intolerance or other issues.

6. Taste and Texture

Some babies may find the taste or texture of ragi unappealing, making it challenging for parents to incorporate it into their daily meals. Experimenting with recipes can help, but persistence is key.

FAQs on Ragi Benefits and Side Effects for Babies