Nutrition in childhood: the importance of olive oil in children’s diets

Simple recipes with olive oil can contribute to the physical and intellectual development of children.

Nutrition in childhood is one of the most important factors for the physical and mental development of children. A balanced diet provides the body with the nutrients necessary for growth, learning and disease prevention.

We have already talked about how to introduce olive oil into babies' diets , with recipes such as Broccoli Baby Food and Roasted Vegetable Soup. But today, we have separated recipes for slightly older children to have in their lunch box, read until the end to check them out!

The benefits of extra virgin olive oil for children

Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy fat, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health. It is also a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps protect the body's cells from damage.

In addition, it also has vitamins A, D and K that contribute to a healthier life:

• Vitamin A – Increases immunity, helps in the body's defense, contributes to the proper functioning of the eyes and promotes the child's growth and development.
• Vitamin D – Improves calcium absorption, helping to strengthen bones.
• Vitamin K – It helps with blood clotting, stimulating the processing of proteins in the body.

O extra virgin olive oil It can be introduced into children's diets from 6 months of age. It can be used for cooking, seasoning salads, vegetables and other dishes.

Simple and tasty recipes for children with olive oil

Below, see our selection of quick recipes to introduce olive oil into children's diets, with healthy and easy-to-find ingredients:

✓ Toast with avocado and olive oil

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 toasts

Method of preparation:

1. Mash the avocado with a fork.
2. Add olive oil, salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Spread the guacamole over the toast.

✓ Fruit salad with olive oil and honey

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped fruit (banana, apple, strawberry, mango, etc.)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Method of preparation:

1. Mix the chopped fruit in a bowl.
2. Add the olive oil and honey.
3. Mix well and serve.

✓ Pancakes with olive oil and fruit

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of wheat flour
• 1 cup of milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• Chopped fruit to taste

Method of preparation:

1. Beat all the ingredients in a bowl until you get a homogeneous dough.
2. Heat a non-stick frying pan with a little olive oil.
3. Place a ladle of dough in the frying pan and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden.
4. Repeat the process with the remaining dough.
5. Serve the pancakes with chopped fruit.

Healthy eating in childhood contributes to physical and mental development

Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy food that can be part of the childhood diet from the first months of life. It is a good source of monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health, it is also a rich source of vitamins and contains antioxidants that help protect the body's cells against damage.

By offering children a healthy diet, we are contributing to their physical and mental development.

Which olive oil to choose?

The most recommended olive oil for children, and also for adults, is extra virgin. Lagar H olive oils are the result of selected olives and a careful production process, ensuring that each drop brings with it the essence of nature, without sensory defects and with unique aromas and flavors.

Check out the secrets of Lagar H premium olive oil and bring the taste of tradition and quality to your table. Explore our collection of extra virgin olive oils and taste the difference in every drop. Click here to get to know Lagar H Olive Oils and discover the true essence of olive oil production.