Dries Figs (also known as Anjeer/Athi Pazham) are an excellent dry fruit and the best remedy to relieve constipation in babies, toddlers, and kids. Figs are also rich in fiber and a good source of iron and minerals. In this post, let’s check how to introduce figs to the baby, how to select them and the method of preparing figs puree to babies.
When and How to give Dried Figs for Babies and Kids
Figs are less allergic and hence, it can be included from babies diet from 6 months after giving basic vegetables and fruits. When you introduce, you can offer as plain dried figs puree and then gradually shift to mashed dried figs and give as finger food by cutting dried figs into tiny pieces around eight months. You can also add figs puree to baby food as a sweetener.
When you give figs puree to babies for the first time, start with 1/2 tsp to 1 tsp. Gradually increase the amount according to the baby’s tolerance level. Don’t tempt to overfeed the baby with figs; it may cause diarrhea in babies as figs are rich in fiber.
For babies above one year, you can soak the dried figs overnight in water and give the figs in the morning along with the soaked water as it has a lot of minerals and vitamins which get dissolved in the liquid. You can also blend soaked figs with milk and offer as a figs milkshake.
How to select and Store Dried Figs
Dried figs are easily available in the market or online. Select clean figs with smooth and unbroken skin. Dried figs can be stored at room temperature in a cool and dry place for a month. For longer storage, store them in the refrigerator.
Health Benefits of Dried Figs for Babies and Kids
- Figs have laxative properties hence it works as a great remedy for constipation
- Great source of iron which prevents anemia in babies and children
- Antioxidants in figs help to build immunity in kids
- Figs are high in calcium. Hence helps to build bone and muscle strength
- Dried Figs - 4 to 5
- Water/Formula Milk/Milk - as required
- Soak the dried figs overnight or soak in warm water for 30 minutes until they are soft enough to mash.
- Once the dried figs are soft, puree them in a blender with the water used for soaking. You could also mash them with your hands for older babies. Add required breast milk/ formula milk/water to adjust the consistency as required.
- Grind it once again. Figs puree is ready! Strain to remove the seeds of the figs. Store the figs puree in the refrigerator for three days and use them whenever required. You can also keep it in the freezer for a month. Use only water if you want to store the figs puree in the refrigerator or freezer.
Method
The dried figs puree is ready to feed your baby.
Here is the video of how to make dried figs puree for baby
Notes :
- Use only water to grind the figs if you want to store the figs puree in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Always check with your doctor before giving any new food to your baby.
- This recipe makes five servings. Begin 1 to tsp of figs puree and always serve figs in moderation as it may cause loose motion in babies if given in excess amount.
- You could mix this dried figs puree with apples, bananas, blueberries, yogurt or any baby food to make it tastier. But if using as a remedy for constipation, plain figs puree is the best.
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