Here's everything you need to know about amla and why you should include it in your child's diet

As children, we were often coaxed into having generous doses of amla candy. And with good reason too! Although many kids are dissuaded by the sour taste of the fruit, amla can be quite beneficial to their health.

To begin, amla is higher in vitamin C than an orange? Bet many of you did not know that! Hence, amla in its many forms such as candy, pickle or powder can be consumed to build one's immunity and prevent various diseases.

What is an amla?

Amla or Indian gooseberry is native to India and Nepal. This ayurvedic wonder is a light green succulent fruit and derives its name from the Sanskrit word Amlaki meaning the 'sustainer'. Amla has been used in Ayurveda, unani and other Asian medicinal practices for thousands of years.

Amla is one of the main ingredients of a powerful herbal remedy called Triphala. It is also used extensively in the making of the jam Chyawanprash, which is used in India as a dietary supplement and to boost immunity. In ancient Ayurveda, it was used to promote long life, aid digestion, enhance concentration and even alleviate respiratory problems.

According to a 2015 study titled 'Anticancer properties of Phyllanthus Emblica (Indian gooseberry)' by researchers from McGill University, Montreal, Canada, amla extracts have tumor repressive properties against a number of cancer types. It also controls sugar levels, slows premature greying, etc.

Further, amla is:

• A high source of vitamin C. This makes it a natural cure for many health disorders like the common cold, stress and infections.
• One of the most popular ingredients used in natural hair care. In fact, regularly applying amla oil can prevent hair from greying.
• High in antioxidants and thus reduces cell damage and slows down the aging process.
• Known to reduce the build-up of bad cholesterol and boost good cholesterol. This helps reduce the risk of heart disease to a great extent.
• A great way of preventing mouth ulcers due to its antibacterial properties and these ulcers are usually caused by a deficiency in vitamin C.
• Helpful in protecting the skin against oxidative stress caused by free radicals, metals and UV damage and in increasing the growth of collagen, a protein that makes up a large part of the skin.

The benefits of amla in your child's diet

Though amla is mostly available in autumn, it can be bought in bulk during this season time and stored and preserved in various forms, to be consumed all year round. It can be included in your child's regular diet. The benefits are plenty. Some of them are:

1. Amla contains great amounts of fiber and has natural laxative properties that provide relief from constipation. It improves gut health, promotes good digestion and regular bowel movements.
2. Vitamin C is known to increase iron absorption and improve hemoglobin levels. Children who are at risk of iron deficiency can intake amla.
3. Amla is a natural appetite booster. Small amounts of it on a regular basis can aid digestive enzymes and enable the child to feel hungry. This in turn helps in weight gain.
4. The natural antibacterial properties of amla help boost a child's immunity and fight infections easily.
5. Regular massage of the hair with amla oil helps prevent itchiness, dandruff and keeps lice at bay.

Since including small quantities can achieve good benefits in children, making this fruit a part of your diet is a great idea. Also remember that during season time, try to use them fresh and include a tangy twist to your many dishes. However, If you wish to use it in the future, preserve it appropriately.