Comprehensive Guide to Green Leafy Vegetables for Pediatric Nutrition
Common Global Leafy Greens
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Iron: 2.7mg
- Vitamin K: 483μg
- Vitamin A: 9377 IU
- Folate: 194μg
- Calcium: 99mg
- Magnesium: 79mg
- Potassium: 558mg
- Vitamin C: 28.1mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Iron-deficiency anemia
- Growth and development
- Bone health
- Immune system support
- Visual development
Precautions:
- High oxalate content - avoid in children with kidney stones
- May interfere with blood thinning medications
- Should be properly washed due to potential nitrate content
- Space consumption away from iron supplements
Kale (Brassica oleracea var. sabellica)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin K: 704μg
- Vitamin C: 120mg
- Vitamin A: 9990 IU
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
- Fiber: 3.6g
- Protein: 4.3g
- Antioxidants: High levels of lutein and zeaxanthin
Pediatric Applications:
- Eye health and vision development
- Immune system strengthening
- Bone development
- Growth support
- Digestive health
Precautions:
- May interfere with thyroid function if consumed in very large amounts
- High fiber content may cause digestive discomfort if introduced too quickly
- Vitamin K content may interact with blood-thinning medications
Amaranth Leaves (Amaranthus)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Protein: 4.6g
- Iron: 3.5mg
- Calcium: 215mg
- Vitamin C: 43.3mg
- Vitamin A: 2900 IU
- Magnesium: 55mg
- Potassium: 611mg
- Zinc: 0.9mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Prevention of iron deficiency anemia
- Protein malnutrition
- Growth support
- Immune system enhancement
- Dental health
Precautions:
- High nitrate content - should be properly cooked
- May contain oxalates
- Should be thoroughly washed to remove soil particles
Asian Leafy Greens
Bok Choy (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin A: 4468 IU
- Vitamin C: 45mg
- Calcium: 105mg
- Iron: 0.8mg
- Folate: 66μg
- Vitamin K: 45.5μg
- Potassium: 252mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Bone development
- Immune system support
- Visual health
- Cell growth and repair
- Mild constipation
Precautions:
- Potential goitrogenic effects if consumed raw in large quantities
- May cause gas in sensitive individuals
- Should be thoroughly washed due to possible pesticide residues
Water Spinach (Ipomoea aquatica)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin A: 6600 IU
- Vitamin C: 27mg
- Iron: 2.5mg
- Calcium: 73mg
- Potassium: 312mg
- Fiber: 2.1g
- Protein: 2.6g
Pediatric Applications:
- Iron deficiency prevention
- Visual development
- Digestive health
- Growth support
- Immune function
Precautions:
- Should be properly cleaned as it grows in water
- Potential heavy metal accumulation if grown in contaminated water
- May contain parasites if not properly cooked
Indian Subcontinent Leafy Greens
Moringa Leaves (Moringa oleifera - Drumstick Leaves)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Protein: 9.4g
- Iron: 4.0mg
- Calcium: 185mg
- Vitamin A: 6780 IU
- Vitamin C: 51.7mg
- Potassium: 337mg
- Magnesium: 42mg
- Zinc: 0.6mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Protein-energy malnutrition
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Growth promotion
- Immune system enhancement
- Recovery from illness
- Vitamin A deficiency
Precautions:
- May cause loose stools if introduced too quickly
- Should be thoroughly washed
- Avoid in children with bleeding disorders due to vitamin K content
Fenugreek Leaves (Trigonella foenum-graecum - Methi)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Iron: 5.3mg
- Calcium: 395mg
- Vitamin K: 247μg
- Vitamin A: 3800 IU
- Vitamin C: 52mg
- Fiber: 4.9g
- Protein: 4.4g
- Potassium: 76mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Digestive health promotion
- Bone development
- Growth support
- Appetite stimulation
Precautions:
- May cause bitter taste in breastmilk if consumed by nursing mothers
- Can cause blood sugar changes
- Strong flavor may not be initially accepted by children
Colocasia Leaves (Taro Leaves - Arbi ke Patte)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Protein: 4.4g
- Iron: 2.3mg
- Calcium: 227mg
- Vitamin C: 42mg
- Vitamin A: 4200 IU
- Fiber: 3.4g
- Potassium: 648mg
- Magnesium: 83mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Anemia prevention
- Digestive health
- Growth support
- Bone development
- Vision health
Precautions:
- Must be properly cooked to remove calcium oxalate crystals
- Can cause throat irritation if not cooked properly
- Avoid in children with kidney stones
- Never serve raw
Curry Leaves (Murraya koenigii)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Iron: 12.0mg
- Calcium: 830mg
- Vitamin A: 7100 IU
- Fiber: 6.8g
- Protein: 6.1g
- Magnesium: 44mg
- Vitamin B2: 0.21mg
- Antioxidants: High levels of carbazole alkaloids
Pediatric Applications:
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Digestive disorders
- Malnutrition
- Growth promotion
- Dental health
Precautions:
- Strong flavor may need gradual introduction
- May interact with certain medications
- Should be thoroughly washed due to pesticide use
Gongura/Roselle Leaves (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Iron: 3.2mg
- Calcium: 213mg
- Vitamin C: 54mg
- Vitamin A: 4700 IU
- Fiber: 5.0g
- Protein: 3.3g
- Antioxidants: High levels of anthocyanins
- Magnesium: 51mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Iron deficiency prevention
- Immune system support
- Digestive health
- Vitamin C supplementation
- Antioxidant support
Precautions:
- Sour taste may need gradual introduction
- May lower blood pressure
- Avoid in children with kidney stones due to oxalic acid content
Mediterranean Leafy Greens
Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin K: 830μg
- Vitamin A: 6116 IU
- Vitamin C: 30mg
- Magnesium: 81mg
- Iron: 1.8mg
- Potassium: 379mg
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Calcium: 51mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Blood formation support
- Bone development
- Vision health
- Growth support
- Digestive health
Precautions:
- High oxalate content
- May interfere with blood-thinning medications
- Can cause kidney stones in susceptible individuals
Endive (Cichorium endivia)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin K: 231μg
- Vitamin A: 3308 IU
- Folate: 142μg
- Vitamin C: 6.5mg
- Potassium: 314mg
- Fiber: 3.1g
- Iron: 0.8mg
- Manganese: 0.2mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Digestive health promotion
- Bone development
- Blood formation
- Immune system support
- Eye health
Precautions:
- Bitter taste may need gradual introduction
- May cause allergic reactions in some children
- High fiber content may cause digestive discomfort if introduced too quickly
African Leafy Greens
African Nightshade (Solanum scabrum)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Protein: 4.3g
- Iron: 3.2mg
- Calcium: 442mg
- Vitamin A: 8200 IU
- Vitamin C: 64mg
- Folate: 85μg
- Potassium: 436mg
- Magnesium: 92mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Severe malnutrition
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Growth stunting prevention
- Immune system support
- Vision problems
Precautions:
- Must be properly identified and cooked - never eat raw
- Avoid if child has nightshade sensitivities
- Should be sourced from known safe suppliers
Spider Plant (Cleome gynandra)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Beta-carotene: 18mg
- Vitamin C: 144mg
- Iron: 6.4mg
- Calcium: 288mg
- Protein: 4.8g
- Fiber: 3.1g
- Zinc: 1.7mg
- Folate: 423μg
Pediatric Applications:
- Severe vitamin A deficiency
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Growth support
- Immune system enhancement
- Cognitive development
Precautions:
- Bitter taste needs gradual introduction
- Should be properly cleaned and cooked
- May cause mild gastrointestinal upset if eaten raw
Jute Mallow (Corchorus olitorius)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Protein: 4.5g
- Iron: 7.2mg
- Calcium: 360mg
- Beta-carotene: 6410μg
- Vitamin C: 80mg
- Folate: 97μg
- Zinc: 0.9mg
- Fiber: 2.0g
Pediatric Applications:
- Iron deficiency prevention
- Growth promotion
- Vision health
- Bone development
- Digestive health
Precautions:
- Can be mucilaginous - texture may need adaptation
- Should be thoroughly washed
- Avoid in children with certain blood disorders due to high vitamin K
Wild Edible Greens
Lamb's Quarters (Chenopodium album)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Protein: 4.2g
- Iron: 1.2mg
- Calcium: 309mg
- Vitamin A: 11600 IU
- Vitamin C: 80mg
- Vitamin B2: 0.44mg
- Magnesium: 34mg
- Potassium: 452mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Growth support
- Vision health
- Immune system support
- Bone development
Precautions:
- Must be properly identified before consumption
- Avoid collecting from areas with pesticide use
- High oxalate content - moderate consumption advised
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Omega-3 fatty acids: 350mg
- Vitamin A: 1320 IU
- Vitamin C: 21mg
- Iron: 1.9mg
- Calcium: 65mg
- Potassium: 494mg
- Magnesium: 68mg
- Protein: 2.0g
Pediatric Applications:
- Brain development
- Vision health
- Cardiovascular health
- Anti-inflammatory conditions
- Growth support
Precautions:
- Must be correctly identified
- Avoid if growing in contaminated soil
- High oxalate content
Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin K: 250μg
- Vitamin C: 43mg
- Vitamin A: 4700 IU
- Calcium: 120mg
- Iron: 0.2mg
- Iodine: 12μg
- Protein: 2.3g
- Antioxidants: High levels of phenolic compounds
Pediatric Applications:
- Immune system support
- Bone health
- Thyroid function (iodine content)
- Growth support
- Antioxidant protection
Precautions:
- Must be thoroughly washed due to water-borne parasites risk
- Strong peppery taste needs gradual introduction
- Only consume from known safe sources
South American Leafy Greens
Maca Leaves (Lepidium meyenii)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Protein: 3.8g
- Iron: 2.2mg
- Calcium: 250mg
- Vitamin C: 28.6mg
- Vitamin B6: 0.8mg
- Potassium: 336mg
- Zinc: 0.8mg
- Fiber: 4.1g
Pediatric Applications:
- Energy levels
- Growth support
- Cognitive function
- Immune system support
- Nutritional supplementation
Precautions:
- Start with small amounts
- Monitor for allergic reactions
- Not recommended for children under 2 years
Ora Pro Nobis (Pereskia aculeata)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Protein: 25.4g
- Iron: 3.6mg
- Calcium: 267mg
- Vitamin C: 185mg
- Fiber: 11.3g
- Zinc: 1.2mg
- Magnesium: 119mg
- Vitamin A: 4200 IU
Pediatric Applications:
- Protein malnutrition
- Growth support
- Iron deficiency
- Immune system enhancement
- Digestive health
Precautions:
- Must be properly prepared to remove thorns
- High fiber content may cause digestive issues if introduced too quickly
- Should be thoroughly cooked
Microgreens and Sprouts
Broccoli Microgreens
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin C: 147mg
- Vitamin K: 230μg
- Sulforaphane: 73mg
- Iron: 2.6mg
- Protein: 2.5g
- Calcium: 95mg
- Magnesium: 32mg
- Zinc: 0.6mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Immune system development
- Detoxification support
- Anti-inflammatory conditions
- Cancer prevention
- Growth support
Precautions:
- Start with small amounts
- Ensure clean growing conditions
- Monitor for cruciferous vegetable allergies
Pea Shoots
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin C: 88mg
- Vitamin A: 10640 IU
- Protein: 5.3g
- Folate: 61.5μg
- Iron: 2.8mg
- Calcium: 36mg
- Fiber: 2.8g
- Antioxidants: High levels of polyphenols
Pediatric Applications:
- Growth and development
- Vision health
- Immune system support
- Brain development
- Energy metabolism
Precautions:
- Monitor for legume allergies
- Ensure proper food safety in growing
- Introduce gradually
Sunflower Microgreens
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Protein: 3.4g
- Vitamin E: 37mg
- Zinc: 2.1mg
- Iron: 2.3mg
- Calcium: 47mg
- Folate: 61μg
- Vitamin B6: 0.23mg
- Essential fatty acids: High content
Pediatric Applications:
- Brain development
- Immune system support
- Antioxidant protection
- Skin health
- Growth support
Precautions:
- Check for seed allergies
- Ensure seeds are food-grade
- Monitor for digestive tolerance
Additional Asian Leafy Greens
Malabar Spinach (Basella alba)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin A: 8000 IU
- Vitamin C: 102mg
- Iron: 1.2mg
- Calcium: 109mg
- Protein: 1.8g
- Fiber: 2.4g
- Magnesium: 65mg
- Antioxidants: High levels of betalains
Pediatric Applications:
- Heat climate nutrition
- Vision development
- Growth support
- Digestive health
- Immune system support
Precautions:
- Mucilaginous texture may need adaptation
- Thoroughly wash before use
- May cause mild laxative effect
Garland Chrysanthemum (Glebionis coronaria)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Beta-carotene: 3930μg
- Vitamin C: 43mg
- Calcium: 177mg
- Iron: 2.1mg
- Potassium: 494mg
- Fiber: 2.4g
- Protein: 2.6g
- Antioxidants: High flavonoid content
Pediatric Applications:
- Vision health
- Bone development
- Immune support
- Growth promotion
- Antioxidant protection
Precautions:
- Distinct flavor needs gradual introduction
- May cause allergic reactions in chrysanthemum-sensitive children
- Should be thoroughly cooked
Chinese Chives (Allium tuberosum)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin C: 30mg
- Vitamin K: 212μg
- Calcium: 92mg
- Iron: 1.1mg
- Protein: 3.2g
- Fiber: 2.5g
- Allicin compounds: High
- Sulfur compounds: Significant
Pediatric Applications:
- Immune system enhancement
- Digestive health
- Bone development
- Blood health
- Antimicrobial support
Precautions:
- Strong flavor needs gradual introduction
- May cause garlic breath
- Monitor for allium allergies
Lesser-Known Mediterranean Greens
Bladder Campion (Silene vulgaris)
Nutrient Content (per 100g raw):
- Vitamin C: 45mg
- Iron: 3.1mg
- Calcium: 142mg
- Protein: 2.9g
- Fiber: 3.2g
- Vitamin A: 4400 IU
- Magnesium: 34mg
- Potassium: 397mg
Pediatric Applications:
- Iron deficiency prevention
- Growth support
- Digestive health
- Vision development
- Bone health
Precautions:
- Must be properly identified
- Cook thoroughly before consumption
- Avoid wild-harvested unless expert-verified
Disclaimer
The notes provided on Pediatime are generated from online resources and AI sources and have been carefully checked for accuracy. However, these notes are not intended to replace standard textbooks. They are designed to serve as a quick review and revision tool for medical students and professionals, and to aid in theory exam preparation. For comprehensive learning, please refer to recommended textbooks and guidelines.
