For many of us in India, Sabudana translates into ‘fasting food’ or food consumed during religious fasts like Navratri. Around the world, Sabudana or Sago is used as a thickening agent. Sabudana is also known as “Shaabakki” in Kannada, Javvarisi in Tamil and “Saggubiyyam” in Telugu.
Sabudana is basically the starch extract from tapioca roots. The extracted starch is processed to form spherical pearls of various sizes, which is what we see in supermarkets and stores. Besides being extremely filling and easily digestible, sabudana is also packed with nutrients.
Nutritional Benefits of Sabudana
According to Ayurveda, sabudana has a cooling effect on the body, making it an ideal food for the summer. Sabudana is also a good source of carbohydrates, and helps keep your energy level high. Here are some more health benefits of Sabudana:
- Helps in maintaining blood circulation and controls blood pressure
- Helps to control flatulence, indigestion and constipation
- Aids in weight gain
- Aids Muscle Growth
- Aids Bone Development
- Regulate body temperature
- Aids in proper functioning of the cardiovascular system
With so many benefits, it’s normal to wonder if you can give your baby sabudana. Let’s look at how and when this can be done.
Can I give my Baby Sabudana?
Even though the nutrients are less, due to its simple form, it can be given to babies as introductory food. The carbohydrate content of sabudana is filling and energy rich for babies. It is also easily digestible and it proves to be the best food for baby’s immature digestive system. Babies will not experience constipation or tummy troubles after eating it. Sabudana can be given to babies after 6 months of age. Only breast feeding is recommended till 6 months. While introducing any new foods, it’s important to follow 3-day rule and also give little initially and gradually increase the quantity. Introduce new foods at day time and avoid it giving later at night.
Sabudana is safe to feed for babies, however few babies may experience allergic reactions. Some symptoms are, itching in mouth, swelling of the lips, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, pain, rash and reddening of the skin.
Avoid the new food if you notice any of the allergic reactions and immediately consult with your doctor.
Sabudana Recipes for Babies and Toddlers
Sabudana Urad Dal Cereal for Babies from Yummy Tummy Aarthi
Sabudana Dosa from Cooking and Me
Sabudana Idli from Hebbar’s Kitchen
Sabudana Vada from Sharmis Passions
Sabudana Kabab from Cook Click n Devour
Sago Yogurt from Great Secret of Life
Sabudana Fruit Porridge from Mom Junction
Sabudana Kesari from Sharmis Passions
Sabudana Kheer from G K Food Diary
Can I give sabudhana for my 8 month baby if he is having cough during navarathri ( by navarathri I mean to ask during monsoons and winter season as it is mentioned that it is a summer food)
Yes, You can feed sabudana during monsoon and winter as well. Please give in moderate.