Nuts and dried fruits are rightly called unsurpassed health products — the list of their valuable properties is endless. At the same time, nuts and dried fruits that are so useful for children can cause harm to the body. To avoid this, you should learn as much as possible about them.
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The benefits of nuts for children are really enormous. Of particular value are the essential amino acids for proper development. In such a balanced composition, they are rarely found in plant foods. Fats are represented by unsaturated fatty acids. Among them, the place of honor is occupied by omega-3 acids, which are responsible for the well-coordinated work of the nervous system and the brain. In addition, nuts are rich in vital vitamins and trace elements.
Dried fruits impress with their vitamin and mineral complex no less. It is no secret that heat treatment partially destroys the useful substances in the composition of fresh fruits, while dried fruits retain them almost completely, and they are stored in this form for a very long time. Dried fruits are also rich in fiber, which is responsible for the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. And thanks to fructose, this delicacy usefully replaces harmful sweets.
The perfect introduction
At what age can I give my child nuts? Doctors do not recommend doing this earlier than three years, otherwise the baby risks choking. In addition, an immature child’s stomach can not afford such an abundance of fat, not to mention the fact that nuts are one of the most dangerous allergens. That is why it is recommended to introduce them into the diet in small doses, carefully monitoring the reaction. How many nuts can you give to a child over three years old? The optimal portion is 30-50 g of nuts no more than twice a week.
With dried fruits, everything is somewhat simpler. They can be added to the children’s menu from 11-12 months. Usually they start with decoctions based on dried fruits. It is also allowed to give the baby 1-2 slices of dried apple or pear, carefully monitoring its condition. Then you can smoothly move on to dried apricots, prunes, dates and raisins. Remember: the daily allowance should not exceed 50-80 g of dried fruits.
Health Strike Force
Nuts for the immunity of children — one of the most useful products. And each type has a certain benefit. Walnut has a firming effect and normalizes digestion. Hazelnuts improve heart function and prevent the development of anemia. Peanuts stimulate the nervous system and thought processes. Almonds promote the growth and development of various organs. Cashew strengthens tooth enamel and relieves inflammation. The benefits of pine nuts for children are that they soothe the restless and promote a serene sleep.
Dried fruits are also not inferior to nuts in terms of therapeutic effects. Raisins of all varieties perfectly strengthen the immune system, so it is recommended for the prevention of beriberi. Dried apricots accelerate overall growth and protect the circulatory system from negative factors. Prunes are essential for healthy digestion and normal intestinal microflora. Dates make bones and teeth strong, and muscle tissue-elastic.
Unbiased selection
It is important to know not only what nuts can be given to children, but also how to choose them correctly. Ideally, you should buy nuts in the shell — so they do not deteriorate longer. If you find a dusty coating inside, the nut should be discarded. This indicates the presence of harmful substances. Pay attention to the color of the core. The yellowness on the cut indicates the beginning of the rotting process. By the way, to keep the nuts longer, dry them and keep them in a cool and dark place.
The attractive appearance of dried fruits is not always a sign of excellent quality. On the contrary, it often indicates that the fruit is treated with a special substance to give smoothness and brightness. In fact, shriveled and not too appetizing dried fruits are the most useful. But the larvae and the wine taste give out a product that was stored with violations. To avoid this at home, keep the dried fruit in a linen bag where it is dry and dark.
Delicate handling
How to give nuts to children? In any case, you can not eat them raw. The fact is that some nuts contain toxins that are neutralized only after heat treatment. But you should not overcook the kernels – five minutes in a dry pan is quite enough. Doctors advise giving children nuts with muesli, as part of different dishes or for dessert. But not with pastries, because in terms of calories, it covers half of the daily diet of the child.
Dried fruits are thoroughly washed and steamed in boiling water. In this form, they can be added to cereals, cottage cheese and salads. And dried fruits make an excellent vitamin compote. Take a mixture of any dried fruit weighing 50 g and pour 500 ml of filtered water overnight. In the morning, without draining the water, bring the fruit platter to a boil and let it stand under the lid for about an hour. In this case, it is better to do without sugar or replace it with honey.
Nuts and dried fruits are an important supplement to a child’s diet, especially in the winter months. But this is exactly the case when the benefit is determined by the quantity. Choose only high-quality products for children and cook them with a soul together with the culinary portal “Healthy Food Near Me”.