There is no festive lunch or dinner that can be considered worthily concluded, except when the basket of
dried fruit arrives on the table, a marvel for the eyes that is impossible to resist. In fact, this is enough, and it is immediately
Christmas . But also on all other days of the year, dried fruit -
both nuts (walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, peanuts...)
and dehydrated (preferably naturally: figs, dates, plums, apricots, bananas, coconut, grapes, mango …) – it is an excellent food and an ally of well-being, moreover recommended, in small doses and in spite of the high caloric intake, also to help maintain a healthy weight (
future and new mothers stock up on it ). Consuming a small amount every day ensures the body the right amount of
vegetable proteins (up to 20%),
fibers, vitamins and Omega 3 fatty acids (useful for the neural development of the brain and the protection of the heart - especially the Omega 3s of walnuts – and to prevent vascular diseases, tissue aging and atherosclerosis – the Omega 3 of hazelnuts). Other benefits include function on the
immune system and prevention of anemia, free radicals and constipation. Specifically, pistachios are very effective antioxidants thanks to vitamin E; almonds (4 or 5 a day) are a valid snack, as they help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), curb hunger and keep weight under control; dates also calm the appetite and the desire for sweets; raisins and prunes are diuretics and laxatives; pine nuts are rich in iron; the calcium fig and vitamin B; apricots and bananas of potassium and magnesium (which helps concentration). Given all these virtuous prerogatives, it is easy to understand that children, in addition to being fond of them,
should eat dried fruit often, even daily. Its high nourishing and energetic power gives them the right momentum, supporting them in their wild games.
PRECAUTIONS
■ Dried fruit can be included in the diet after one year of life, nuts only if finely ground. The whole fruit (or in coarse pieces) could in fact be inadvertently inhaled and cause suffocation: to offer them to children it is better to wait until they are 3 or 4 years old, when they are now able to chew and swallow correctly.
■ If cases of allergies have been registered in the family, it is advisable to postpone the introduction of dried fruit, hazelnuts and peanuts in the first place until the fourth year of life.
