Fox nuts also known as “makhanas” are highly nutritious for babies as well as adults. The nutritional value of fox nuts is quite high and that is why parents prefer them as snack foods for their babies. This is a healthy option that keeps tummies filled up for a longer period. These seeds are rich in a host of macro and micronutrients, provide all the nutrients for proper growth and development and keep your little munchkin’s energy levels up through the day, something growing babies need.
Kids of any age group can consume makhanas as these do not have many side effects. Makhanas can also be roasted and then consumed as this enhances their taste and makes them more delicious. Since your baby feels fuller for longer after consuming makhana, they are active for longer hours. Today in this blog, we are going to cover everything about makhanas or fox nuts for babies.
In This Article
- Are Makhanas Safe For Babies?
- When Can You Introduce Makhanas to Your Baby?
- Nutritional Value of Makhana
- Amazing Top 5 Health Benefits of Makhana For Babies
- Precautions to Take While Introducing Makhanas to Babies
- Are There Any Side Effects of Makhana For Babies
- Healthy And Tasty Makhana Recipe For Babies
- FAQ’s
Are Makhanas Safe For Babies?
Makhana seeds are high in nutrition and safe for babies. They do not possess any known allergies and side effects are rare. They are easy to store and consume. For very young babies who are just transitioning into solids, you can pre-prepare makhana powder and store, which you can use to make both sweet and savory recipes. I
When Can You Introduce Makhanas to Your Baby?
Makhana can be introduced to babies who are ready for solids, once they reach 7 months of age or more. Due to the fact the makhana get easily digested, it can be safely introduced to your baby. Make sure your munchkin is comfortable with rice and cereals before introducing. This will ensure that your baby’s digestive system is ready to accept makhana seeds without any issues.
This can also be consumed along with porridge, and milk. But do keep a watch on any probable side effects of these on your baby. If you do not witness any side effects of the same, you can start giving fox nuts regularly to your baby.
Nutritional Value of Makhana
The table below gives a list of the important nutrients present in foxnut seeds and their quantity
| Nutrients | Value |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Vitamin A | 15.9 IU |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg |
| Folate | 33 mcg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Calcium | 52 mg |
| Potassium | 430 mg |
| Phosphorus | 198 mg |
| Total Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 32 mg |
| Total Omega-6 Fatty Acids | 340 mg |
Amazing Top 5 Health Benefits of Makhana For Babies
As we have discussed above, makhanas have a high nutritional value. Apart from this, it can be easily and safely consumed by babies, and it acts as a versatile food. If your baby consumes makhanas regularly, it’ll be beneficial for them in the following ways:
1. Promotes Healthy Sleep
Sleep is of utmost necessity for babies and many babies have issues sleeping properly due to teething, and lack of proper sleeping habits among other factors. Makhanas are rich in components such as flavonoids, alkaloids as well as saponins which promote healthy sleep in babies.
2. Detoxifies the Body
Bad toxins must be flushed out of the body to ensure healthy living in babies. Makhanas are good for stomach health and when your baby consumes them, it detoxifies your baby’s body and makes it fit and healthy.
3. Ensures Healthy Weight Gain
Healthy weight is essential for babies and unhealthy weight gain can lead to obesity in the long run. Makhanas ensure healthy weight gain in babies as they remain full after eating fox nuts and do not demand much food. Not just this, makhanas keep your baby active and energetic throughout the day.
4. Gluten-Free and Safe For Babies
Makhanas are gluten-free which means that the probability of allergic reactions in your babies is quite low after consumption. These are also low in calories and do not harm your babies in any manner unless over-consumed.
5. Rich in Minerals
Minerals or micronutrients play an essential role in proper growth and development. Babies go through several growth spurts and keep learning something new every day. Minerals are essential to ensure that all the organs function properly so that babies can invest time in being active and learn everything they need to at their age.
[Read : Tasty Quinoa Recipes For Babies And Its Health Benefits]
Precautions to Take While Introducing Makhanas to Babies
Although makhanas are the safest option for babies, many moms worry about any probable precautions that they should take while giving makhanas to their babies. Yes, there are a few precautions that you must follow:
- Always buy organic fox nuts rather than non-organic ones.
- Look for the expiry date before buying and before giving it to your baby.
- Store fox nuts in an air-tight container as they can be highly affected by moisture.
- Check if there’s any presence of worms or any mold before giving them to your babies.
Are There Any Side Effects of Makhana For Babies
Makhanas are safe for babies and rarely cause side effects. But when they are overconsumed, it can lead to uneasiness, and cause side effects for babies.
Let’s have a look at the slight side effects of makhanas below:
1. Digestion Problems
When babies consume fox nuts in larger quantities, it leads to digestive issues which can even go worse with time. Makhanas are undoubtedly good for a baby’s health but they must be consumed in a limited quantity. Otherwise, it can lead to digestive disturbances in your child and can cause them issues such as bloating, constipation, etc.
2. Uneven Heartbeat
Makhanas are not good for babies who are already suffering from cardiovascular issues. Why? Because makhanas are known to have antiarrhythmic properties and should not be given to kids without consulting.
3. Can Cause Allergies
Although there are no such allergies reported in fox nuts consumption if they are consumed in large quantities, this might be possible. It is important to watch out for any reactions in babies.
[Read : The 3-Day Wait Rule For Babies To Introduce Solids]
Healthy and Tasty Makhana Recipe For Babies
Makhanas are one of the most used ingredients in Indian households. This nutritional snack can be munched in at any time of the day. Not just this, it can also be clubbed with other ingredients to make yummy and delicious recipes. Let’s have a look at some of the recipes below:
1. Makhana Porridge For Babies
To make makhana porridge for babies, firstly remove the blackhead from the seeds and split the seeds into two to check whether there’s any fungal growth. After checking for it, put the makhanas in a hot pan and fry for around 15 minutes, until they turn crispy. Do not over-fry the makhanas as they will create a foul smell. Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add some hot water to the powder, mix well to avoid any lumps before giving to your baby.
You can create variation by adding mashed fruit such as banana to the porridge to create a healthier and tastier version.
FAQ’s
1. Is Makhana Easy to Digest For Babies?
As we discussed above, makhanas are best suitable for babies over 7 months. They are easy to digest. But to ensure safe digestion, cut them in half before giving them to your baby. These are good for maintaining good health and also help in preventing diseases such as constipation and bloating.
2. Does Makhana Cause Constipation in Babies?
Yes, regular and moderate consumption of makhanas can lead to smooth bowel movements in babies without causing constipation. Furthermore, makhanas are gluten-free and hence are good for kids having an intolerance towards gluten.
3. Does Makhana Increase Weight in Babies?
Yes, makhana is an excellent way to gain healthy weight due to its high carbohydrate content.
Read Also: Sabudana For Babies – When to Introduce, Benefits and Precautions
