Children eating nuts is a good way to promote growth and brain development because nuts are rich in protein, vitamins, and beneficial trace elements. However, not all nuts are suitable for children; choosing the right type is crucial.
For babies under one year old, parents can grind almonds, walnuts, pine nuts, and hazelnuts into powder and mix them into complementary food. This not only enhances the texture but also allows children to absorb the rich nutrients in nuts. For children aged 1 to 3, the recommended daily intake of nuts is between 20 to 30 grams to avoid digestive issues due to excessive nut oil.
Among many nuts, chestnuts are a good choice as they are nutritionally rich, helping children develop strong bones, alleviate fatigue, and contain high sugar, starch, and protein content with low fat content, particularly rich in beneficial vitamins and minerals.
Walnuts are traditionally known as brain-boosting food, rich in essential amino acids crucial for children’s brain development, easily absorbed, and elements such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron that nourish the skin and prevent premature graying. In terms of nutritional density, walnuts far exceed many common foods.
Sunflower seeds are also a good snack for children, containing alpha-linolenic acid that promotes brain development and abundant vitamin E, beneficial for blood vessel health. Moderate daily consumption can also help prevent cancer, lower blood pressure, and improve nerve weakness. However, it is important to note that fried sunflower seeds are high in salt, excessive consumption or excessive chewing leading to excessive saliva loss may be detrimental to health. Therefore, when choosing nuts for children, not only consider their nutritional value but also pay attention to moderation and processing methods.
