What is Makhana?
Makhana, also known as fox nuts, lotus seeds, or water lily seeds, is a part of the traditional Indian diet. Filled with nutrients and packed with taste, it is perfect for snacking! Whether you are an adult seeking something healthy to munch on while you work at your desk, or a busy parent looking for healthy snacks for your babies and toddlers, roasted makhana can be a staple.
Why Introduce Makhana to Babies?
While makhana has become quite the health rage for adults during this popularity phase it has gained, what people don’t get is that they are also great for babies. Here’s the nutritional value of 100 gms of makhana:
- 350 calories
- 9.7 grams of protein
- 77 grams of carbs
- 0.1 grams of fat
Apart from this, makhana is rich in thiamine, a key nutrient that supports healthy nerve function and keeps your brain sharp. Adding it to your baby’s diet can also boost the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for smooth communication between nerve cells. And here’s a bonus: makhana is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect snack option for kids with gluten sensitivities.
When and How to Introduce Makhana to Babies?
Once your baby hits the six-month mark of growth, you can introduce them to this powerhouse of nutrition. But start small! You can make makhana powder and feed your baby one spoonful for the first few days to see if there are any signs of allergies. If not, you may continue giving your baby makhana in different forms.
There are so many ways to introduce this delicious snack to your baby and toddler. You can make makhana porridge, makhana cereal, makhana sooji kheer, makhana and lentil soup, or simply roast the makhana. There are several makhana recipes for babies available online. You can check them out for reference.
Health Benefits of Makhana for Babies
As mentioned above, makhana is rich in different nutrients, making it a great snacking option for babies above the age of six months. But what are the health benefits of makhana for babies? Here are some of them:
1. For Growth and Energy
Filled with fibre and protein, these nutrients are ideal for a baby’s muscle growth and overall body development. Makhana is a great source of fibre which helps your baby improve their bowel movements so they don’t suffer from constipation. Less constipation means a healthy and happy baby who has no excess sodium or water retained in its body! The content of fibre in makhana also helps with muscle contractions that can be the culprit behind cramps. Other than protein and fibre, makhana is also rich in carbohydrates, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus which are essential for increasing energy levels in kids. High energy levels mean more ground for development. With boosted energy, your baby can dedicate themselves to playtime.
2. For the Immune System
The presence of antioxidants in makhana is ideal for a growing baby’s developing immune system. This is because of the presence of a flavonoid called kaempferol that is present in many plants. It is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, helping your baby’s immune system work hard on protecting their body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.
3. For Easy Digestion
Not only is makhana ideal for its nutrition-packed nature, but it’s also light for your baby’s tummy. Being extremely easy to digest, makhana can be considered a nice option for a quick snack that’s gentle on the baby’s stomach, leaving no room for bloating, constipation, or cramps. This keeps your baby happy and healthy!
Bottom Line
Makhana can be an ideal choice of snack not only because it has so many health benefits, but also because there are so many ways in which you can make it. From makhana porridge to roasted makhana, your baby will love the variety of each dish you serve! Moreover, giving your baby new dishes and ingredients in their diet is also a great way to introduce them to new food and let them know its importance. This can make them more adaptable to different ingredients and help them grow into less picky eaters in the future.
Author Bio-
Chitra Khanna is the Content Strategist at KLAY Preschools & Daycare, where she leads content creation focused on early childhood education and parenting. With a background in digital marketing and a passion for empowering families, Chitra develops resources that engage and inform parents, helping them navigate the critical stages of their children’s development. Her creative approach and deep understanding of educational trends ensure that her content is both relevant and impactful. Outside of work, Chitra enjoys exploring new learning methodologies and contributing to discussions on child welfare and growth.
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