What are the benefits of zucchini for infants? Zucchini for children: beneficial properties, recipes. Zucchini puree
Pumpkins, squash, melons, zucchini are the permanent inhabitants of our garden plots, from which every autumn we prepare marinades and pickles, choosing interesting recipes. But today we will talk about zucchini, representatives of the Pumpkin family, which came to us from Mexico.
Dishes made from it are varied and very tasty, from everyone’s favorite caviar to pancakes. But not everyone will answer the question whether raw zucchini will be beneficial.
Composition of zucchini
Regardless of the variety and shape, the growing zone and the characteristics of a particular area, the composition of zucchini differs little. To begin with, this product is a dietary product with a low calorie content, which is 24 kcal/100g. This is not surprising since it is 95% water, which contains vitamins and minerals. There are proteins and carbohydrates, but their quantity is insignificant. What then is the composition and why should you eat this vegetable?
The benefits of raw zucchini are as follows:
1. A large number of mineral components: calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium.
2. Significant content of microelements that are needed in small concentrations: titanium, lithium, zinc, molybdenum.
3. An abundance of vital vitamins: group B, carotene or provitamin A, C, PP.
5. The presence of cellulose, which is not digested, but is important for the gastrointestinal tract.
6. The presence of a small number of simple carbohydrates.
7. Lack of fats and, accordingly, cholesterol.
On a note: The potassium content of vegetables is 100 times higher than sodium. Due to this, the water balance is controlled and excess fluid is removed from the body. In addition, these two elements allow the heart muscle to work without interruption.
What are the benefits of raw zucchini?
It's surprising that a vegetable is so healthy. Let's start with the effect on the gastrointestinal tract:
Low calorie content helps reduce weight,
· choleretic properties support the liver,
· low sugar level makes the product suitable for diabetics,
· the digestive tract works better thanks to cellulose, which enhances intestinal motility,
· does not cause stomach irritation, since the contents organic acids insignificant.
· simple carbohydrates cause quick saturation and are easily digestible.
It turns out that raw zucchini is also good for the skin: it refreshes the color, maintains a healthy condition, moisturizes and rejuvenates. Because of its moisturizing effect, cosmetologists have introduced it into face masks. Its components are included in sunscreens because they protect skin covering from UV rays.
Here is a recipe for a mask, simple and accessible to everyone: grate raw zucchini on a fine grater, squeeze and apply to clean skin. It is advisable to take the procedure while lying down, covering the mask on top with several layers of gauze. Harmful actions – 30 min. The composition is simple, but it improves tone and moisturizes the skin. The components of the melon vegetable will also help in the fight against “orange peel”, but this is a separate topic.
For your information: Since people lose weight on zucchini, there are special diets: zucchini mono-diet, diet of American astronauts, fasting days. All these options can be used and gradually lose extra pounds.
The vegetable has been proven to have a positive effect on cardiovascular system:
Helps in the prevention of atherosclerosis,
· strengthens vascular walls due to tartronic acid,
· participates in the prevention and treatment of anemia, in the processes of hematopoiesis due to the high iron content.
Due to the diuretic and choleretic action, toxic substances (cholesterol, radionuclides) are removed from the body. The removal of excess salts from the body helps in the fight against arthritis.
Pectins contained in plant cultures have a cleansing effect. Therefore, zucchini should be in the diet of people who work in hazardous industries or live in environmentally polluted regions. So the benefits of raw zucchini are obvious.
On a note: Pediatricians recommend introducing zucchini into the diet of young children (in stewed form). Young vegetables contain enzymes that help in the absorption of proteins. Vitamins and minerals are involved in the growth and development of the baby. Zucchini has good digestibility.
Raw zucchini salads
All this is great, but in what form should you eat raw zucchini? It is included in salads, but only young zucchini without seeds should be used. The result is a light, tasty and low-calorie dish. We offer you two easy-to-prepare salads to try.
Salad “From the garden” , which is prepared simply and quickly. It does not contain any hard-to-find components; the ingredients are literally plucked from the garden. It includes:
· zucchini – 400g,
· carrots and cucumbers – 200g each,
· onions – 100g,
· sesame or linseed oil – 1 tbsp. l,
· dill and parsley - to taste.
Further the process is underway preparation: chop a small zucchini, carrots and cucumbers using a grater. Cut the onion into rings and finely chop the dill and parsley. The ingredients need to be mixed and seasoned with oil. Healthy vitamin salad is ready to eat.
Korean-style zucchini salad is an unusual and slightly spicy recipe, which includes:
· zucchini – 1 kg,
· carrots and peppers – 1 pc. each,
· table vinegar and sunflower oil – 1 tbsp each. l,
· coriander – 1 tsp. l,
· ground red pepper – 0.5 tsp,
· sugar and salt - to taste.
The salad is prepared simply: cut the zucchini into slices, pepper into strips, and chop the carrots on a grater. Mix the vegetables and set for 20 minutes until the juice appears. We live it out and add the rest of the ingredients according to the recipe. Add oil to the salad and leave it in the refrigerator for a while so that the vegetables are saturated with spices.
You can choose a recipe with zucchini that suits you exclusively.
Raw zucchini: harmful properties for the body
When overeating, any product is harmful, and zucchini is no exception to the rule. Excessive consumption of raw zucchini is harmful to health. How does this manifest itself?
1. For people who are allergic to pumpkin, eating both raw and cooked vegetables is contraindicated.
2. Possible problems with stomach or duodenal ulcers, since the composition contains vitamin C.
3. It is undesirable to introduce this product into the diet if you have kidney disease, since it has a diuretic effect. But here you need medical advice.
4. You should not eat melons on an empty stomach, as the vegetable has a pronounced laxative effect.
5. An unexpected reaction in the form of bloating, flatulence or diarrhea is possible.
6. Raw zucchini is harmful to children under 5 years of age. It causes disturbances in the functioning of the stomach, and heartburn, vomiting, and belching are possible.
In other cases, you can eat zucchini for your pleasure. They rarely cause allergies. So the harm of raw zucchini is minimal.
For your information: If you prefer zucchini fried, remember that zucchini absorbs oil. At the same time, its calorie content increases significantly, which should be taken into account by people with gastrointestinal problems and those who are losing weight “on zucchini.”
As soon as summer comes and fresh vegetables begin to “peek out” from under the huge leaves in the garden beds, don’t miss the chance to eat delicious salads, become slim and improve your condition. Moreover, this representative of the pumpkin family is famous not only for its pleasant taste, but also for its good harvest.
Did you know that the birthplace of the well-known zucchini is hot Mexico, where the healthy and easily digestible product was eaten long before our era? The vegetable appeared in Russia only at the beginning of the 19th century, but managed to fall in love with many. What benefits does zucchini bring to the body and can it cause harm? Let's understand the properties of the product, the nuances of use and contraindications.
Useful properties of zucchini, its juice and seeds
Zucchini is an easily digestible product that is rich in vitamins, microelements and does not cause allergies. This allows you to use it in dietary nutrition and even for the first feeding infants.The vegetable has a beneficial effect on the body due to:
- high iron content - zucchini is recommended for anemia (anemia);
- phosphorus and calcium in the composition - the product strengthens bones and teeth, prevents the development of osteoporosis, helps fractures heal faster;
- vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system;
- biologically active components that have a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system and reduce blood pressure in hypertension;
- pectins, which have a positive effect on liver function and have choleretic properties;
- fiber - zucchini normalizes work as gently and delicately as possible gastrointestinal tract, cleanse the body of toxins and prevent constipation;
- healthy carbohydrates - the vegetable is considered an ideal product for diabetics and people with metabolic disorders;
- large volume of liquid containing: zucchini - a mild and natural diuretic.
Juice from raw zucchini is highly prized. Fans healthy eating They use it to quench thirst and replenish vitamin and mineral reserves. It is also used for calming nervous system under stress. The drink, which is 95% water, contains a large amount of vitamins E, A, PP, group B and microelements.
Zucchini is also used in cosmetology. Masks made from grated vegetables and lotions made from zucchini juice have a tonic and moisturizing effect on the skin.
A special place among zucchini is occupied by zucchini - a variety bred in Europe and representing small oblong fruits with a thin green skin. It is believed that this vegetable has a more delicate taste than regular zucchini, so it is eaten even raw and added to fresh salads. Chemical composition
Both types are identical, so they have almost the same effect on the body.
| Table: Chemical composition (per 100 g of product) | |
| Energy value | Calorie content |
| Squirrels | 0.6 g |
| Fats | 0.3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4.6 g |
| Organic acids | 0.1 g |
| Alimentary fiber | 1 g |
| Vitamins | |
| Vitamin A | 5 mcg |
| Vitamin B1 | 0.03 mg |
| Vitamin B2 | 0.03 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.11 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin PP (nicotinic acid) | 0.7 mg |
| Macronutrients | |
| Potassium | 238 mg |
| Calcium | 15 mg |
| Magnesium | 9 mg |
| Sodium | 2 mg |
| Phosphorus | 12 mg |
| Microelements | |
| Iron | 0.4 mg |
Contraindications and possible harm
The list of contraindications for eating zucchini is small. The product is not recommended to be eaten if:
- exacerbation of chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer stomach (applies to eating raw zucchini, since pectins and biological substances can irritate the inflamed mucous membrane);
- intestinal infections, stool disorders;
- kidney diseases associated with impaired urine excretion;
- individual intolerance, which is extremely rare.
Doctors are extremely favorable towards this useful product and allow it to be consumed up to 1.5 kg per day. It is better to use vegetables grown on your own personal plot or purchased from trusted sellers during the harvest season. It is considered optimal to consume fresh zucchini as part of vegetable salads, but not more than 1-2 small fruits, since excess fiber can cause digestive upset. Vegetables stewed, boiled or baked on the grill are also useful. Fried zucchini - not the best healthy dish
: due to the abundance of oil and flour breading, they become very high in calories.
Vegetables in the diet of pregnant women
- Zucchini is a wonderful dietary product that can be eaten at all stages of pregnancy:
- In the first trimester, when women are often bothered by nausea and vomiting, zucchini, stewed with a minimum amount of spices, can be an excellent option for a light lunch or dinner that does not provoke an exacerbation of toxicosis. If you wish, you can crunch with fresh fruits: choose strong young zucchini with thin skin and small seeds. Is it okay to eat in the middle of pregnancy? dietary vegetable
- in any form or quantity, it will not cause harm. Despite the high content of vitamins and microelements, zucchini lacks nutritional value. Add the right protein to your diet and eat them with steamed fish, lean meats or chicken breast. In the third trimester, zucchini becomes especially useful, as it removes excess fluid from the body and relieves swelling, which often develops pregnancy.
The product is also useful for large weight gain: a portion of zucchini stewed with onions and carrots has a minimum of calories, but at the same time fills you up quite well. Therefore, those expectant mothers who need to control their weight can replace a full dinner with this dish 2-3 times a week.
Is it possible to eat the product while breastfeeding?
Zucchini is also allowed for women who are breastfeeding, and from the first days of the baby’s life. Until the baby is three months old, especially if he is suffering from infant colic, eat a cooked vegetable (boiled, baked, stewed - any except fried), and then you can include fresh zucchini in the diet. It is recommended for a nursing mother to consume up to 2-3 small fruits daily.
How and when to start feeding vegetables to your child? The introduction of complementary foods is an important event for every family. How will the baby get acquainted with the first “adult” food, how will he react to new foods? These questions always worry young mothers. In order for the transition process to new level
the child’s digestive system is working successfully, follow the recommendations of the World Health Organization and leading pediatricians. According to the latest data, zucchini is an ideal product for introducing the first complementary foods at the age of 6 months.
It is better to offer your baby puree that you have prepared yourself from fresh and strong fruits, without adding salt, sugar or other products.
For the first time, let your child try a new dish in the amount of 1-2 spoons of puree. While observing your baby throughout the day, note any, even minimal, changes in his digestive system and behavior. If there is no negative reaction to zucchini, gradually increase the serving size to 100–120 g.
Zucchini for various diseases
Pancreatitis Acute inflammation of the pancreas precludes the consumption of any food, even dietary and easily digestible zucchini. You can include puree from fruits boiled in salted water into your diet no earlier than two weeks after the pain has subsided. Start with 1 tablespoon of this puree per day, then within a week increase the serving volume to 100 ml.
For chronic pancreatitis, the product can be eaten in any form, with the exception of fried.
It is not recommended to consume squash caviar and canned fruits due to the high content of vinegar and spices. Diabetes. Patients with diabetes can eat up to 500 g of dietary product per day.
Gastritis, stomach and duodenal ulcers
Stewed or steamed zucchini without spices is recommended for patients suffering from stomach and duodenal ailments. You can eat up to 250–300 products per day.
Gout
The dietary vegetable is also useful for uric acid metabolism disorders. For gout, it is recommended to eat 400–500 g of zucchini 3–4 times a week, boiled, stewed or baked, dividing the dish into several meals.
Inclusion in a diet for weight loss
Zucchini is one of the most delicious helpers in the fight for a slim figure. 100 g of raw vegetable contains only 24 kcal and a large amount of useful substances, so it is highly recommended for those who want to lose weight. excess weight. Those who are in the process of losing weight need to know about several important nuances:
- Zucchini is good in the company of other vegetables - onions, carrots, bell pepper and eggplants, but not potatoes. Stewed stew makes an excellent side dish for lean meat, fish or chicken breast.
- Many people's favorite fried zucchini with mayonnaise is prohibited. Breading, butter and fatty sauce make the dish high in calories and harmful not only to the figure, but also to the liver.
- To reduce the overall calorie content, grated zucchini can be added to our usual dishes, for example, minced meat for making cutlets, soups and savory baked goods.
- Eat at least 500 g of dietary product per day, taking it in small portions every 2-3 hours.
Table: Comparison of the energy value of raw, boiled, stewed and fried products
Recipes for proper nutrition
Zucchini soup
Ingredients:
- zucchini - 1 small;
- carrots - 1 pc.;
- celery root - 100 g;
- chicken breast - 1 pc.;
- natural yogurt for dressing;
- salt, spices - to taste.
Prepare chicken bouillon by boiling the skinless breast. Grind the zucchini on a special grater to make long strips, cut the carrots and celery root into small cubes. Place vegetables and chicken pieces into the boiling broth. Cook everything for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve with a spoonful of yogurt.
Zucchini stew
Ingredients:
- zucchini - 0.5 kg;
- eggplants - 0.5 kg;
- bell pepper - 2 pcs.;
- carrots - 2 pcs.;
- onions - 1 pc.;
- tomatoes - 2–3 pcs.;
- salt, spices - to taste.
Wash the vegetables thoroughly and cut into small cubes. Pre-soak the eggplants in a cold saline solution for half an hour to remove bitterness. In a non-stick saucepan, simmer the onions and carrots (since the recipe does not require the use of vegetable oil, you can add a little water), then add the rest of the vegetables and simmer for 25–30 minutes until tender. The last step is to add spices and mix.
Zucchini stewed with chicken
Ingredients:
- chicken breast - 1 small;
- young zucchini - 1 pc.;
- sour cream (10–15% fat) – 300 g;
- onions - 1 pc.;
- salt, spices - to taste.
Remove the bones from the chicken breast and cut into small cubes. Peel the onion and zucchini and also cut them. Fry the onions in a small amount of oil until golden brown, add chicken and zucchini to it. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, add a little water if necessary. Then add sour cream and spices, mix thoroughly and simmer for another 5 minutes. Serve the dish hot.
Methods of use in folk medicine
From worms
Ingredients:
- peeled zucchini seeds - 50 g;
- boiling water - 200 ml.
Pour in the seeds hot water, put on fire and boil for 15 minutes. Then pour into a thermos and leave for another 2 hours. Drink half a glass between main meals for 14 days.
From stagnation of bile
Ingredients:
- zucchini - 1 pc.;
- cucumber - 1 pc.;
- tomato - 1 pc.;
- corn or olive oil - 1 tbsp. l.;
- salt, herbs - to taste.
Wash the vegetables and chop into thin strips. Add herbs and salt, dress the salad vegetable oil and eat 300–400 grams fresh daily for 7–10 days during an exacerbation of liver disease.
For the treatment of erosive and ulcerative gastritis
Ingredients:
- zucchini - 1 pc.;
- pumpkin pulp - 200 g;
- onions - 1 pc.;
- couscous - 150 g;
- water - 250 ml.
Rinse the vegetables under running water, peel and cut into small cubes. Simmer in a small amount of water until tender. In a separate pan, boil the couscous in 250 ml of water, combine with vegetables. It is recommended to eat this nutritious dietary dish 3–4 days after an exacerbation of erosive and ulcerative gastritis.
For any type of gastritis, it is useful to consume zucchini in the form of jam (300 g of sugar is taken per 1 kg of fruit). Eat 2-3 teaspoons of the treat to relieve pain.
For heartburn
When you suffer from heartburn, drink 200 ml of freshly prepared zucchini juice.
For the treatment of constipation
Zucchini is an example of a perfectly balanced, dietary and tasty food. The vegetable is useful for the whole family, young and old, and is also still used in popular recipes traditional medicine. Add it to your daily diet more often, and your body will definitely thank you.
Collateral good health, well-being, high productivity is animal nutrition. Many rabbit breeders have questions regarding zucchini in their animals’ diet. Undoubtedly, zucchini is an affordable and healthy product, but many owners have doubts about the possibility of feeding them to rabbits. To find out whether these vegetables are good for your little ears, in what quantities and at what age, continue reading.
Can rabbits have zucchini?
Zucchini is a succulent food (parts of plants and fruits with a high water content). It is known that succulent food is an extremely important component of the diet of lagomorphs.
Therefore, feeding this product to rabbits is not only possible, but simply necessary for normal health and development. Introducing zucchini into your diet will help make it more varied and fortified. Zucchini can be fed to both ornamental and agricultural species.
Did you know?Briton Alberto Marantonio grew a zucchini that ended up in the Guinness Book of Records as the longest zucchini in the world. Its length was only slightly less than the height of the farmer himself - 160 cm!
Zucchini is rich in ascorbic acid (C), vitamins B6, B9, PP and K, the amount of minerals in it is insignificant. But the vegetable also contains fiber and organic acids. 
Benefits of the product in the diet of rabbits:
- normalizes the activity of the cardiovascular system;
- has an antioxidant effect;
- stimulates hematopoietic processes;
- normalizes the activity of the nervous system.
Feeding rules
We’ve sorted out the possibility of including the product in the little ears’ diet. Now it is important to understand at what age it is best to introduce a juicy vegetable, as well as in what quantity. Equally important is the processing of the product, or lack thereof.
At what age can you
It is best to introduce zucchini to babies from the age of 1.5–2 months. By this period, their digestive system is already sufficiently adapted and strong to tolerate succulent food without problems. However, some rabbit breeders prefer to delay introduction to the product until four months of age. 
How to give
Before feeding adult zucchini, the zucchini must be thoroughly cleaned of soil and dirt, washed, and the skin must not be cut off. The vegetable must be given unprocessed. Rabbits eat with appetite both fully ripe and slightly unripe fruits.
For convenience, the zucchini can be cut into small slices or cubes. To feed babies, the fruits can be peeled, and overripe specimens can be additionally cleaned of seeds.
Important!With an excessive intake of succulent feed, rabbits may experience diarrhea, bloating and an imbalance of intestinal microflora. To prevent digestive disorders, you need to adhere to the daily norm.
Regarding dosage, rabbit breeders are of the opinion that succulent food in the eared dog’s diet should be about 200 g per day. This portion may include zucchini exclusively, but it will be more useful to mix them with other vegetables (pumpkin, potatoes, carrots), bringing the total weight to 200 g.
Despite the enormous benefits of the vegetable, it is strictly forbidden to switch a rabbit to a zucchini diet, since one type of product will not be able to satisfy the body’s need for nutrients. 
Can rabbits eat pumpkin and zucchini?
Based on the above, it is also not prohibited to give pumpkin to rabbits, and the combination “zucchini + pumpkin” is quite common and useful. If zucchini is given only raw, then the pumpkin can also be boiled and pureed, especially for baby rabbits. Little rabbits can be given pumpkin from 3 months.
In crushed form, it can be added to combined feeds, thereby increasing their nutritional value and palatability for animals. It is useful for adults to consume pumpkin seeds to prevent helminthic infestations, especially since rabbits enjoy eating them.
Including pumpkin in the diet improves coat quality and stimulates digestion. The consumption of pumpkin by pregnant females subsequently increases milk production and the viability of the offspring.
Did you know?Food can remain inside a rabbit's intestines for up to 5 days or more. The intestinal muscles are very weak, so only constantly arriving new food can push old food out. Due to weak muscles, the rabbit does not have a developed gag reflex.
Pumpkin is an excellent product for the fattening period of rabbits, which coincides with the harvest period (September–October). Pumpkin tops can also be fed to big-eared animals by first crushing them and dousing them with boiling water. But it needs to be introduced into the diet gradually. 
What else can you give rabbits?
Since rabbits are herbivores, they can be fed a wide variety of plant foods. Below is a small list of what the Eared Ears will happily eat:
- From mid-spring to mid-autumn, the basis of the eared fish’s diet is green food. These are legumes and cereal grasses, foliage and tops of root crops (forage clover and alfalfa, corn, oat and rye greens, beet and potato tops). Green food is given in pure form or in mixtures.
- Roughage (25% of diet). This group is rich in fiber: twigs, hay, grass meal. Such feeds are given as independent food or in the form of mash (grass meal).
- Concentrates (30–40% of diet). These are highly nutritious feeds: cereals and beans, meal and cakes, fish and bone meal. Some feeds can be given whole or crushed without processing (oats, barley), while others must be pre-soaked (cakes and meals, crushed corn, wheat bran).
Despite the great benefits of vegetables in the diet of rabbits, giving some of them to rabbits is strictly prohibited:
- red cabbage;
- Red beetroot;
- cucumbers;
- tomatoes;
- onion;
- radish;
- young or with traces of green potatoes;
- eggplants.
Important!Rabbits are« strict vegetarians» , therefore the presence of animal products, including dairy, in the diet is not allowed. A small amount of meat and bone meal is possible as a mineral supplement.
Thus, zucchini in the diet of long-eared animals is very valuable and useful product, also very affordable in our area. The main thing is that when feeding rabbits with this product, follow the norm so as not to harm the digestive system. Zucchini and pumpkin are excellent foods to enrich, diversify the diet and improve the health of animals.
Can rabbits have zucchini: video
Almost all children love zucchini. This is a versatile vegetable with a neutral taste, so it can be used to prepare any category of dishes: soups, side dishes and even desserts. Zucchini extremely rarely can cause allergies, which is why many pediatricians recommend them as a first food for children prone to dermatitis or other diseases of a similar nature.
What are the benefits of zucchini?
Zucchini is very well received by still immature digestive system kids. One of the important advantages is that they contain a large amount of pectin, this is a special fiber of plant origin. It has a gentle effect on the intestines, enhancing its peristalsis. If your baby is prone to constipation, do not rush to buy pills for him - try adding zucchini puree or soup to his diet.
Pectin is a soluble fiber; unlike insoluble fiber, it acts gently, without irritating the esophagus and stomach. She has others too beneficial features: Absorbs and removes toxic substances, including excess salt and cholesterol. Although zucchini gives a feeling of fullness, in fact, 100 g of the vegetable contains only 24 kcal, which means it is indicated for children who are prone to obesity.
The carbohydrates contained in zucchini are easily digestible, therefore, will not cause an increase in blood glucose levels - even diabetics can eat this vegetable. But that’s not all: the humble fruit contains ascorbic acid and vitamin E, group of B vitamins and others. It also contains minerals: calcium and magnesium, which are so important for the functioning of the heart, iron, which has a positive effect on the composition of the blood, phosphorus, and magnesium. And although there are not as many of them as in some fruits, they are practically not destroyed during cooking - this is due to both the special structure of the cells and the short duration of thermal exposure.
You've probably seen it in stores different varieties zucchini. The juiciest ones are light green, with thin skin. Less watery are zucchini, which have a particularly sweet taste. Yellow zucchini also has a pleasant taste. By nutritional value All varieties are almost the same.
When should children not be given zucchini?
In extremely rare cases, zucchini can cause allergies. In this case, it should be immediately excluded from the diet. At risk are babies with allergic rhinitis caused by pollen from herbs such as wormwood or ragweed. If you notice problems after eating zucchini dishes, be sure to consult a doctor to find out the reasons.
You should not give your child zucchini during periods of exacerbation of ailments associated with the digestive tract, including diarrhea. If your baby has kidney problems, you need to check with the doctor whether this vegetable can be offered to him. Such precautions are due to the mild diuretic effect that zucchini has.
How to introduce zucchini into the diet of babies
For the first time, it is best to prepare zucchini puree for the baby. Important nuance- No need to add salt to it. Small children, unlike adults, normally perceive the natural taste of products, especially zucchini. For the first time it can be offered in six months. If the baby is artificial - earlier, at 4–5 months. It should be introduced into the diet with extreme caution, according to the following scheme:
- Give the first portion in the morning - no more than 5 g, this is about half a teaspoon;
- each subsequent portion should be 5 g more than the previous one - within a week;
- bring the norm to 50 g (approximately).
When the baby grows up, he can be given about 60–70 g of zucchini puree for morning feeding (7–8 months). Most often, zucchini is offered in combined purees - with carrots, potatoes, and onions, of course, if the child tolerates it well. By 10 months, the baby becomes almost large - his portion by this time can be 100 g.
Important! First you give complementary foods and only after that - breast milk or baby food.
Closely monitor your child's behavior and health. Has the stool become looser? This is not a cause for alarm, but you need to be more vigilant. Do you have suspicious skin rashes? Eliminate zucchini from the menu for 10–14 days, then reintroduce it into the diet. If there are problems again, don’t offer them again for up to a year.
Recipes
Zucchini casserole with hard cheese
The tasty dish is quickly prepared, and can be eaten from a year and a half old. You will need:
- 2 small zucchini;
- 30 g finely grated cheese;
- 3 eggs, preferably homemade, make sure they are fresh.
Cut the washed and peeled vegetables into pieces up to 2.5 cm thick. Beat the eggs thoroughly. Grease a baking dish with sunflower oil, you can sprinkle it with breadcrumbs. Place zucchini on it in 1 layer, pour beaten eggs over everything, sprinkle cheese on top. Bake in a moderately preheated oven for 25 minutes. Pour sour cream over the finished dish. If desired, you can sprinkle with herbs - dill and parsley.
Stuffed zucchini
The filling is meat and rice. The dish turns out very tasty due to the saturation of the meat with vegetable juice. The minced meat comes out tender and incredibly flavorful. You will need the following products:
- half a glass of rice;
- 2–3 small zucchini;
- 300 g minced meat;
- greenery;
- minced meat, preferably veal, but beef can also be used - 300 g;
- small onions;
- half a glass of sour cream;
- salt - to taste.
First we prepare the filling. Cook the rice slightly so that it remains slightly firm. While cooking, peel the zucchini, cut it into 4-5 parts (crosswise), remove the core, but not all the way, so that the “bottom” remains - you should get small glasses. Grind the extracted vegetable pulp using a blender, add onions and herbs to the mixture, then add cooked rice and salt. Stuff the zucchini and then bake it in the oven.
Creamy zucchini soup
This soup is indispensable in the summer. It cooks very quickly, children eat it with great pleasure and, of course, it is much tastier than traditional first courses with potatoes and cereals. You will need:
- one and a half glasses of milk;
- 2 small zucchini;
- greenery;
- a pinch of salt.
Place the milk in a saucepan, bring to a boil over medium heat, while it heats up, you will have time to peel and cut the zucchini into small cubes and add them to the bowl. Make sure that the vegetables are barely covered with milk. Once it boils, boil for no more than 10 minutes, add salt. The final stage is beating with a blender: until the mixture becomes homogeneous, without lumps. Before serving, decorate with herbs.
Zucchini omelette
This light dish is ideal for a hot day when many babies have a reduced appetite. Required:
- 2 fresh eggs (if they stay near the bottom in a pan of water, it means they are 1–2 days old; if they partially rise, it takes 3–4 days; if they float to the top, do not give them to children);
- 1 small zucchini;
- salt on the tip of a knife;
- sunflower oil.
Beat the eggs until foamy, add salt, add grated zucchini, strained from excess juice, washed and dried greens (pre-finely chopped). Pour the prepared mixture into a preheated and lightly oiled frying pan. Important! The omelette should be cooked over low heat - then it will cook evenly and be more tasty.
Zucchini has long been included in the diet modern man. Thanks to Columbus, this relative of the pumpkin was brought to Europe in the 16th century and remained a decorative curiosity with no practical use for almost two centuries. Today, this vegetable can be found in almost every household plot. Following the example of the Italians, who were the first to appreciate the delicate taste and dietary properties this product, people all over the world willingly use healthy zucchini not only for preparing a wide variety of dishes, but also as a cosmetic and even medicine. It is believed that the product has minimal contraindications and causes almost no harm even to people with chronic diseases.
Composition and beneficial properties
The pulp of young zucchini is a real storehouse of vitamins and microelements. And if you consider that this vegetable retains its properties well when frozen, then by using it in your diet, you can not only delight in taste, but also receive tangible benefits.
Table: Vitamins in zucchini
Table: Minerals and trace elements
Despite differences in skin color and shape, all varieties of zucchini have the same properties Beneficial features
Today you can find many varieties of zucchini. They have different shapes and skin color, but practically do not differ from each other in properties.
The zucchini variety has gained the most popularity today. They have a cylindrical shape and a thin green skin, which on young fruits does not need to be cut off. Zucchini of this variety, which have a mild taste, are used not only stewed or fried, but also fresh, as a base for salad. Slightly unripe vegetables 20–25 cm long are the healthiest.
Zucchini juice
Most of us are accustomed to eating zucchini already cooked. Of course, after heat treatment they retain most of their properties, but some share of vitamins and minerals is still destroyed. The way out of this situation for those who do not like the taste of raw vegetables is juice squeezed from the zucchini pulp. It is a real concentrate of vitamins and other useful substances and fully possesses all the properties of this vegetable.
To prepare the juice, young zucchini are peeled from seeds and peel, and, after passing through a grater or meat grinder, the juice is squeezed out of the resulting puree. You should start drinking it with a tablespoon before meals, gradually increasing your daily intake to two glasses. However, if during the first days no unpleasant phenomena (for example, diarrhea or flatulence) appeared, then the dose can be safely increased to 1 liter.
Seeds
Zucchini seeds are no less useful, and in order to get all the benefits from this product, it is enough to eat only 15 seeds daily.
They can be eaten raw, but it is better to dry them a little in the sun or on a baking sheet in the oven. No oil is used. Fresh zucchini seeds are a remedy that helps against many diseases. Like pumpkin seeds, zucchini seeds contain santonin, which explains their anthelmintic properties. In addition, they have a calming effect and perfectly relieve tension. Due to their high fat content, zucchini seeds are used in the preparation of cosmetics as a component that regulates the activity of the sebaceous glands.
Caution should be used to include zucchini in the diet during exacerbation of gastritis and stomach ulcers. For these diseases, it is best to avoid raw foods and consume steamed or stewed vegetables.
You will also have to give up zucchini if you have kidney failure. The reason for this is the high content of potassium in them, which the kidneys cannot cope with in this pathology.
Consumption standards
During pregnancy, zucchini is an almost ideal product, as it serves as a kind of prevention of anemia and pressure surges, which often occur in the first months. Zucchini will also be very useful in the third trimester. It is during this period that women suffer from edema and often gain extra pounds. The low calorie content (only 24 kcal) and diuretic properties of this vegetable help solve both of these problems. And we must not forget about the ability of zucchini to cope with constipation, which also often occurs in the last weeks of pregnancy.
However, no matter how useful this vegetable is, you need to take into account that the protein content in it is very low, and for proper nutrition it is necessary to combine it with lean meat or fish.
Also, when creating a menu, in order to make dishes more filling, you can use more high-calorie foods as companions - potatoes, beans, eggplants.
When breastfeeding: are nursing mothers allowed?
Zucchini in any form has an excellent effect on the stomach and intestines, without causing any unpleasant phenomena in the form of increased gas formation, so they can be safely included in the menu of a nursing mother. This product will not harm either herself or the baby.
Video: Vegetable stew with zucchini in a slow cooker
Is it possible for children as their first baby food?
Of all the beneficial properties of zucchini for baby food, the most important is its hypoallergenicity. This vegetable very rarely causes food intolerance, even in children prone to diathesis or atopic dermatitis.
If, after introducing zucchini into the menu, a rash appears or the stool is disturbed, then they are canceled and tried again after a 1-2 week break. If this experiment ends in failure, then the introduction of zucchini to the menu is postponed for up to a year. A one-year-old child can already be given zucchini not only as part of soups, but also as main courses. However, it is better to exclude pickled and fried zucchini from the children's diet. Due to the high fat content, you should not give them squash caviar.
Zucchini is the first vegetable introduced into a child’s diet. Zucchini diet
With the help of this vegetable it is quite possible to lose extra pounds. In addition, a zucchini diet is also beneficial in material terms (you must admit that in the summer it is a fairly affordable product). Another advantage of this diet is its variety. Zucchini goes well with many foods, and there are even more ways to prepare it. The diet can last from a week to a month, during which the basis of the diet is zucchini in a variety of variations. It can be stews, steamed or baked. Young zucchini can be eaten fresh or made into salads. Since fresh zucchini contains only 24 kcal, you don’t have to worry about the calorie content of dishes with it.
In addition to various vegetables, it is recommended to include low-fat varieties of fish and poultry, low-calorie milk and dairy products, eggs, and herbs in the diet. It is better to limit salt, but increase the drinking regime (you need to drink at least 2.5 liters per day). Also, during the diet, exclude the following products from the diet:
For preparing dishes, it is best to use young vegetables, the skin of which does not need to be cut off, since the main supply of vitamins is in it. It is also better to minimize the heat treatment of dishes. The number of meals with such a diet should be five times a day.
Here are examples of dishes that you can try.
Stewed zucchini with vegetables for weight loss
In summer, such a dish will be very economical and healthy. Calorie content 100 g ready-made dish- 36 kcal.
The zucchini is cut into small cubes, onions, carrots and peppers into strips. Fry onions and carrots in a deep frying pan, add peppers and zucchini and a little hot water, cover with a lid and, stirring, simmer for 5 minutes.
Tomatoes are doused with boiling water, peeled and chopped. Fry the flour in a dry frying pan until light yellow, dilute it a little with water and mix with tomatoes and spices. The resulting fill is added to stewed vegetables, salt, bring to a boil and let it brew for 10 minutes, covered.
Omelet with zucchini and peppers
It is not forbidden to add tomatoes to the omelette Calorie content per 100 g - 68 kcal
Cut the zucchini into medium slices, salt and leave for 5 minutes. Place in the microwave (maximum power). The pepper is cut into strips, fried in hot oil and zucchini is added to it. Lightly beat the eggs together with the spices, pour them into the frying pan, stir a little, cover with a lid and bring to readiness over low heat.
Is it possible for various diseases?
Usually fried foods, even though these are the healthiest zucchini, they are not recommended for gastrointestinal diseases For pancreatitis
Benefits for diabetes mellitus type I and II
The composition of zucchini makes it a welcome guest on the menu of a person suffering from diabetes. Let's start with the fact that the carbohydrate content in it is minimal (only 4.6 per 100 g). But this is not the main advantage of zucchini for this disease. The already mentioned lack of essential oils and coarse fiber allows you not to overload the pancreas, which is already unable to cope with the production of insulin. The high content of potassium and tartronic acid in zucchini strengthens blood vessels, allowing one to delay such a serious complication as retinopathy.
For gastritis with high or low acidity
With this disease, there are some restrictions on the use of zucchini. If gastritis occurs with increased secretion of gastric juice, then you should not include fresh vegetables in the menu. Since during an exacerbation, gentle food is necessary, pickled and fried zucchini are also excluded. But dishes with stewed or steamed vegetables can be safely included in your diet.
For gout
Your choice - boiled vegetables Zucchini is one of the most healthy vegetables for gout. Firstly, they help remove excess uric acid, which is the cause of this disease. Secondly, due to its composition, zucchini fits perfectly into the diet of such patients. They are advised to limit their protein intake; the amount of protein in zucchini is very small. And even the fact that 96% of its composition is water also has certain advantages, because the volume of fluid consumed in this disease needs to be increased. For gout, it is better to eat zucchini boiled or stewed and do not forget about limiting table salt - it is better if the dishes are under-salted.
In the treatment of stomach ulcers
Zucchini will also be useful in the diet of a patient with a stomach ulcer. The pectins in their composition will protect the irritated mucous membrane and help scarring of the ulcer, and the antitumor properties of this vegetable will come in handy. But you need to remember that the zucchini must pass heat treatment. For ulcers, they can only be consumed stewed or boiled.
For diseases of the stomach and intestines, it is best to eat zucchini stewed or boiled. Health Recipes
Each ailment has its own nuances of heat treatment of vegetables. Proper nutrition for oncology
The composition of zucchini helps to resist many diseases, even such serious ones as oncology. These properties are best demonstrated when young plants are consumed. If raw zucchini is contraindicated, the best option There will be boiled or stewed dishes. For example, this puree soup is recommended for patients with problems with the stomach, prostate gland, and large intestine.
Vegetables are peeled, cut into cubes, poured with boiling water and boiled until tender. After this, they are removed from the broth and crushed with a blender. The flour is lightly fried in oil and mixed with vegetables. After this, everything is again placed in vegetable broth, cream is added there, salt is added, brought to a boil and kept on fire for another 2 minutes.
The basis of this soup can also be meat broth, but it is better to prepare it from lean meat, and after it boils, drain the water and add fresh water.
For erosive-hemorrhagic gastritis
Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving Stewed zucchini can be used during the recovery period of this disease.
Vegetables are peeled, chopped as desired and simmered over low heat until cooked. Before serving, they can be topped with low-fat sour cream. Please note that for gastritis, it is important that the portions are small and their temperature when serving is not too high.
Vegetable seeds will help with diabetes
With this disease, zucchini can act not only as useful and delicious product nutrition, an infusion is prepared from it, which helps reduce the manifestations of this disease.
The seeds are thoroughly crushed and mixed with other ingredients. The result should be “zucchini milk” - a slightly greenish liquid. It is drunk in the first half of the day, divided into 2-3 servings. Drink this milk every day for 3 months. It has a beneficial effect not only on the functioning of the pancreas, but also on the liver.
Initially, the Indians of South America, who used these vegetables for food long before Columbus’s visit, considered only zucchini seeds edible.
Raw zucchini for constipation
To improve bowel movements, it is better to eat zucchini raw, for example, in salads.
The healthiest thing is fresh zucchini with unpeeled skin. Cut the vegetables into strips, add salt, add chopped green onions and season with a mixture of oil and lemon juice.
From worms
To gently get rid of worms, prepare the following decoction.
The seeds are poured and boiled for 15 minutes, after which they are infused in a water bath for another 2 hours. Strain the broth and drink 0.5 cups on an empty stomach 2 times a day.
For nervous excitability
In a dark glass bottle, chopped seeds and mint are poured with vodka and left for 21 days, shaking daily. After this, add honey and, shaking in the same way, leave for another week. The infusion is filtered and 1 tbsp. l. Take before dinner and before bed for 2-3 months. The course is repeated every six months.
The following remedy will help relieve increased anxiety.
The seeds are crushed and mixed with other ingredients. Take 1 tbsp. l. in the morning while eating. Store the mixture in the dark glassware with lid.
We often forget that the most simple products can be of great benefit. Zucchini is one of them. You can not only prepare a lot of delicious and varied dishes from it, but also get a boost of vitamins and health.