Nuts are extraordinarily tasty. But they also have a number of health benefits for the human body. They are usually recommended for people weakened after an illness, as well as those who suffer from anemia. Walnuts enhance human immunity and help fight inflammation. Naturally, many parents wonder if such a valuable product can be given to children. Will it help and not hurt?
The composition of the walnut
The fruit of the walnut contains the following substances and elements:
- vitamins. The product contains many vitamins of group B, A, E, K, C, PP.
- Carotene.
- A large number of trace elements. The most common are sulfur, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, iodine, and zinc.
- Amino acids.
- Quinones.
- Phytoncides.
It has been proven that immature walnuts have a high content of vitamin C. Its percentage in the product is even higher than that of blackcurrant, considered one of the best natural sources of ascorbic acid.
nutritional value
Nuts are very high in calories. There are 654 kcal per 100 g of fruit. In addition, in 100 g it registers
- Fats – 65, 1 g.
- Proteins – 15. 2 g.
- Carbohydrates – 13. 7 g.
The amount of protein in nuts is comparable with meat. That is why they like to include it in the diet of vegetarians so much.
Due to their low carbohydrate content, nuts are often included in diets aimed at losing weight. But the main thing is not to exceed the recommended amount, since the fruit has a high caloric value.
The properties of walnuts
Due to its rich composition, walnuts are very useful and with moderate use they can provide enormous help to the body. But including this product in the diet should be aware of the contraindications.
The benefits of nuts
With moderate use of walnuts, beneficial effects on the human body can be observed. The main beneficial properties include:
- Immunomodulator of natural origin. Thanks to the high content of micronutrients and vitamins, a person who consumes nuts regularly improves the immune system.
- The high content of cobalt and iron helps to raise cholesterol levels.
- The magnesium contained in the fruit improves brain function and stimulates memory. Therefore, it is convenient to include this dry fruit in the diet of schoolchildren. Also, magnesium is beneficial for the nervous system.
- It is useful in the prevention of dysbacteriosis. The proteins it contains normalize the digestive system.
- Antioxidant property. Prevents the formation of free radicals.
- Nuts are an excellent natural energy drink thanks to its content in vitamins, flavonoids and minerals.
- Calcium and phosphorus strengthen human bones.
- They are a good source of protein.
- Vitamin E helps improve cardiovascular function.
- Its high fiber content improves intestinal function.
- Polynsaturated fatty acid source.
- Recommended for thyroid disease prevention (high iodine content).
Damage and contraindications.
Despite the abundance of useful properties, nuts have a series of contraindications. Nuts are not recommended for children prone to allergic reactions. Do not eat fruit with a tendency to blood clots, as well as in the pathology of the gastrointestinal tract.
Can children eat nuts (at 2 years, 3 years old, can a on e-yea r-old child, with how old children can)
Many pediatricians prohibit the introduction of nuts into the diet of children under two years. Due to the high fat content of the product, it can negatively affect the digestive system. If the child is prone to allergic reactions, the restrictions are even stricter. The dry fruit cannot afford until the child is five years old.
How to introduce it into the child’s diet
Introducing a child with a nut should be done very carefully. Initially, you can offer a candy room in the morning hours. After the treat, it is necessary to carefully observe the baby. If an allergic reaction is developed, it is necessary to demolish it and postpone the reunion with nuts at a later age.
How is it better to give
It is not advisable to give whole nuts to a tw o-yea r-old child. It is more sensible to chop them and add them to a constant meal (for example, in porridge or fruit purees). You also have to monitor the ingested quantity.
It is very useful to mix nuts with honey and nuts. The result is a delicious treat that will enchant all children. It is important to remember that honey is not recommended for very young children.
What amounts are allowed
At 2 years, the daily ration does not exceed 2-3 pieces. Older children can already eat whole nuts. They are allowed up to 5 pieces a day.
Nut allergy in children
The symptoms of nut allergy appear immediately after eating the dry fruit or after a while. Often enough to add nuts to cookies, ice cream or other snacks.
The most common allergic reactions in a child include:
- Furnishment of burning in the mouth, tongue and gums. Sensation of itching in the throat. Eruption around the mouth (oral allergy syndrome).
- Cutaneous eruption (urticaria). Feeling of intense itching. Eczema formation is possible.
- Nasal drip with clear mucus and swelling. Possible conjunctivitis.
- Broncoospasm, coughing or difficulty breathing occurs.
- Rarely, nausea and vomiting may appear. Occasionally, diarrhea appears.
- Quincke edema. Similar to anaphylactic reactions, it is the one that endangers the child’s life in danger.
If there is even a mild reaction, the child must be treated with an antihistamine. If the problem is related to the respiratory system, a doctor should immediately be consulted.
How to use
When entering the nuts into the child’s diet, the following recommendations must be followed:
- For children suffering from colitis, constipation or stool disorders, the introduction of nuts under strict supervision is recommended. The product can aggravate the seriousness of the pathology.
- Allergic reactions may occur. If they occur, nuts should be excluded from the diet.
- If the child suffers excess weight, the rate of nuts is reduced to 2 pieces a day.
Before introducing the nuts in the diet, a pediatrician must be consulted. Only a specialist will tell you how to correctly introduce the treats into your child and avoid or reduce the risk of undesirable reactions.
