Lotus seeds are very popular in summer. They have the effects of clearing heat, invigorating the spleen, and calming the mind. They have a fragrant and sweet taste and can be eaten raw or used in congee, soups, and desserts. Can children eat lotus seeds? What are some suitable ways for children to consume them?
Can children eat lotus seeds?
They can be consumed in moderation.
Lotus seeds are rich in nutrients and have a mild medicinal effect with no obvious toxic side effects. Children can consume them in moderation. They have the benefits of nourishing the heart and calming the mind, strengthening the spleen and stopping diarrhea, and nourishing the kidneys. Eating lotus seeds can supplement nutrition, promote peace of mind, and strengthen the digestive system. They are suitable for children who suffer from insomnia, frequent dreams, diarrhea, and spleen deficiency.
At what age can children eat lotus seeds?
6 months and above.
Children can start consuming supplementary foods at 6 months old and can eat lotus seeds. However, it is important to note that babies under 1 year old should not consume raw lotus seeds. The bitter taste and cold nature of lotus seed hearts are not suitable for babies. It is best to remove the heart and grind the lotus seeds into powder to add to supplementary food. Children aged 3 to 4 years old can cook lotus seed porridge and drink it.
What is the suitable amount of lotus seeds for children to eat at once?
8-10 grams is recommended.
Consuming lotus seeds in moderation is beneficial for children's health. They can strengthen the spleen and kidneys, nourish the heart, and calm the mind. They are especially suitable for children with insomnia, poor appetite due to spleen deficiency, and diarrhea. However, the amount of lotus seeds consumed by children should be controlled to avoid discomfort. Generally, the recommended amount for children is 8-10 grams.
What is the best way for children to eat lotus seeds?
Lotus Seed and Rock Sugar Soup
Ingredients:
Lotus seeds, rock sugar.
Instructions:
1. Wash the lotus seeds and remove the hearts.
2. Put the lotus seeds in a stewing bowl, add an appropriate amount of rock sugar and water.
3. Cook over low heat for 3 hours. If you prefer a softer texture, cook for a bit longer.
Benefits: Clears heat, detoxifies, nourishes the heart, and calms the mind.
Lotus Seed and Red Date Congee
Ingredients:
Lotus seeds (15g), red dates (10 pieces), rice (appropriate amount), goji berries, sugar (to taste).
Instructions:
1. Remove the lotus seed hearts, remove the pits from the red dates, and wash the goji berries. Soak them in warm water for 1 hour.
2. Fill the rice cooker with boiling water, add rice, lotus seeds, red dates, and goji berries.
3. Cook until the rice is soft and the congee is of desired consistency. Add sugar to taste.
Benefits: Nourishes blood, beautifies the skin, strengthens the spleen, and benefits the stomach.
Precautions for children eating lotus seeds
1. Do not consume in excess.
Excessive consumption of lotus seeds can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.
2. Do not consume lotus seed hearts.
Lotus seed hearts have a bitter taste and are generally not liked by children. Moreover, lotus seed hearts have a cold nature and are not good for the spleen and stomach, especially for children with weak constitution.
3. Not recommended for children with constipation.
Lotus seeds have the effects of tonifying the essence and stopping excessive discharge, which can worsen symptoms of constipation. Therefore, it is not recommended for children with constipation to consume lotus seeds.
