Parents use urad for weight gain in their children. Rich in protein, healthy fats and essential nutrients, urad dal can be an excellent addition to your kid’s diet if you are looking to gain weight in a healthy way in your kid. In this article, you will know about the nutritional profile of urad dal, ways to incorporate urad dal in your kid’s diet and tips for maximizing weight with urad dal.
Nutritional Profile of Urad Dal
Urad dal is packed with nutrients that support weight gain:
- High in Protein: One cup of cooked urad dal contains approximately 25 grams of protein which is essential for muscle building and repair.
- Rich in Healthy Fats: It contains about 1.6 grams of fat per 100 grams providing energy dense calories.
- Carbohydrates: With around 59 grams of carbohydrates per 100 grams, urad dal offers sustained energy.
Ways to Incorporate Urad Dal for Weight Gain into Your Diet
There are various ways to incorporate urad dal for weight gain into your diet. Read on to know about them:
Urad Dal Dosa
- Prepare a batter using soaked and ground urad dal mixed with rice. Ferment it overnight and make crispy dosas. Serve with coconut chutney or sambar for a nutritious breakfast.
Urad Dal Idli
- Similar to dosa, idlis made from urad dal are soft and fluffy. Steaming retains nutrients while providing a filling meal ideal for weight gain.
Dal Makhani
- Cook urad dal with kidney beans, tomatoes and spices to create a rich and creamy dal makhani. Use butter or cream for added calories and flavor.
Urad Dal Khichdi
- Combine urad dal with rice and vegetables to make a wholesome khichdi. This dish is easy to digest and can be enhanced with ghee for additional calories.
Urad Dal Flour (Besan)
- Use urad dal flour in various recipes like pancakes or as a thickener in soups and sauces. It can also be used to make baked goods like muffins or bread.
Sprouted Urad Dal Salad
- Sprout urad dal by soaking it in water overnight, then drain and rinse daily until sprouts form. Mix with chopped vegetables, lemon juice and spices for a nutritious salad.
Tips for Maximizing Weight Gain with Urad Dal
There are numerous tips for maximizing weight gain with urad dal. They are given below:
- Pair with Caloric Ingredients: Combine urad dal dishes with calorie dense ingredients like ghee, nuts or seeds to increase overall caloric intake.
- Frequent Meals: Include urad dal in multiple meals throughout the day rather than just one meal to ensure consistent calorie consumption.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids but avoid filling up on water before meals to ensure you consume enough food.
Conclusion
Incorporating urad dal into your diet can effectively support healthy weight gain due to its high protein content and nutritious profile. Whether you enjoy it in traditional dishes like dosas and idlis or experiment with salads and baked goods, it offers versatility and health benefits that can help you achieve your weight gain goals.
Always consult with a nutritionist before making significant changes to your diet especially if your kid has specific health concerns or dietary restrictions.
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