For the first 6 months after birth, a baby is exclusively fed breast milk for the best health. Once they reach 6 months, solid foods are introduced. These include fruit and vegetable purees, nutritious items such as Cerelac, and similar foods. Additionally, biscuits dipped in tea are also offered to the baby.
You may have observed parents soaking biscuits in tea and giving them to children at home or in the vicinity.
But have you considered whether this practice is appropriate?
Dr. Sheila Agalecha, a pediatrician at Barwani First Kids Friendly Clinic in Madhya Pradesh, posted a video on Instagram debating the suitability of feeding tea and biscuits to children.
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The doctor advises against giving tea and biscuits to children due to potential health risks. Biscuits, composed of flour, sugar, and palm oil, may adversely affect children’s health. Consumption of tea can lead to hyperactivity, sleep disturbances, and hinder iron absorption.
According to a Babylon Hospital article, biscuits lack healthy nutrients essential for child development, despite filling the stomach. It’s advisable to avoid feeding biscuits to children to ensure they receive adequate nutrition.
Commercial biscuits often contain preservatives like butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), which studies suggest can harm blood cells. Additionally, they may include sodium benzoate, potentially damaging DNA.
Biscuits containing baking soda can trigger acid reflux in infants and toddlers. Furthermore, flavoring chemicals in biscuits have been linked to serious health issues such as cancer, lung disease, and brain damage.
Consumption of flour can cause constipation in both children and adults due to its lack of fiber, challenging digestion. Infants, with their slow digestive systems, are particularly susceptible, experiencing symptoms like vomiting, abdominal pain, and bloating as a result of constipation.
