Getting children to eat healthy foods can sometimes seem like an uphill battle. The more leafy and greener the food, the more intense the struggle. However, children’s nutrition is extremely important. Don’t give in and let them eat only fast food and candy. It is worth fighting for.
Why is children’s nutrition important?
Nutrition is important at any age. Your children need the right nutrients to stay healthy and strong, and to grow up healthy and strong. Child nutrition can also help establish a foundation for healthy eating habits and nutritional knowledge that your child can apply throughout their life.
What nutrients do children need?
One easy way to make sure kids are getting the nutrients they need is to choose healthy foods to eat.
Choose lean protein from sources such as beans, nuts, poultry, seafood, and seeds.
Eat canned, fresh, or frozen fruits and vegetables every day. Look for canned and frozen options with no added fats or sugars. Fruits should be in 100% juice or water.
Choose whole grain foods like high fiber bread, cereal and pasta.
Look for low-fat dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt for adults and children in your family. Babies should not have dairy products until they are one year old. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends whole milk for babies 12 to 24 months old, unless your baby is gaining too much weight. Consult your doctor if you are not definite.
It’s also important to limit added and refined sugars, refined grains, sodium, trans fats, saturated fats, and nutrient-poor foods.
Tips for feeding children
Teach the importance of good nutrition and help your children develop healthy eating habits. The more your child understands nutrition, the more enthusiastic they will be about healthy eating.
Nutrients are important, but portion size also matters.
Half of your kid’s plate should have fruits and vegetables.
Choose fresh foods over highly processed foods.
The way you cook and prepare food can affect nutritional value. For example, try broiling, steaming, baking, or grilling vegetables instead of frying or boiling them.
It’s not just the food that’s important. Drink low fat water or milk instead of sugary and sugary drinks.
Different foods provide different nutrients, so make sure your child is getting a good variety of fruits and vegetables.
Find nutritious foods that children enjoy.
Try fruit for dessert.
