Makhana is a kind of food that isn’t just beneficial for babies after they are born; it is also great for their development inside mother’s womb. It is rich in Folic acid, which is the most important component for foetus formation and development. Adding Makhana to a mother’s daily diet singlehandedly prevents birth defects.
Makhana is equally beneficial for babies after they take their first steps as Folic acid aids in the development of neural connections when babies are just developing their nervous and cerebral systems. Makhanas also go by the name of Fox nuts and they are used worldwide for their health benefits. Makhana or Fox nut is more than what you can imagine and here are some more reasons why you should think of adding them to your diet.
Nutritional contents of Fox nuts
Benefits of Makhana for babies start with the high content of Folate in them. They are also a great source of protein. A vegetarian source of Omega 3 Fatty acid that has long been known to improve brain functioning as they contain the essential compound called DHA that are the building blocks of brain tissues. Besides these nutrients Makhanas are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Folate, Iron, Calcium , Potassium, and Phosphorus.
How to feed makhanas to your baby?
Makhanas are big in size and it is not advisable to feed it straightaway as adults do. You can add makhana powder to your baby’s daily food. That way it won’t be a fuss anymore. Toddlers on the other hand can be given roasted makhana seeds. They will definitely enjoy this tasty and nutritious food.
When should foxnuts be introduced to babies?
Makhanas can be introduced to babies any time after they turn six to eight month old. Start with small portion and slowly increase the amount. Beware of any signs of allergy to it and if they are good with it, then, you are free to increase the amount.
When you shouldn’t give makhanas to your baby?
Food allergies should be considered before the introduction of any food to the infants. Though makhanas are not known to give any allergic reactions and they are perfectly safe to eat but human bodies are idiosyncratic and you never know if it works as an allergen in your case. If your baby shows any sign of allergy then don’t give makhana and rather look for an alternative. No doubt that makhana has immense health benefits for babies but you should avoid giving makhana to your baby in the summers as they are known to raise body temperature. This makes makhanas a perfect food for the winters. You can freely give makhanas to your babies during the months of winter.