With plenty of information available
online, it can be very challenging for most parents to make the right dietary
choice for their little ones. Parents must always remember that a child’s diet
is very crucial to his growth and development. Moreover, the habits he usually
picks up ad manifests during his young age will greatly affect his eating
habits later in his life. The rule of the thumbs says that children must eat 3
balanced meals each day, with 2 healthy snacks in between.
Tips To Providing Nutritious Meals For Your Child
Milk – During your child’s first 6 months,
he will rely solely on milk for all his nutritional needs. And at this age,
infant formula is the only alternative to breast milk. Health experts highly emphasized
that you must introduce cow’s milk only when he reaches the age of one. Still,
there are instances when this happens before he becomes a year old. So you need
to choose the best infant formula. You can ask his pediatrician for
recommendations. When he begins to eat solid foods, provide him with starchy
foods, proteins, and fruits and vegetables.
Carbohydrates – If your child is below 13
months old, he will have a hard time eating whole grains and fiber. However,
beyond that age, he can definitely consume these foods already. During this
time, you can start giving him whole nuts and other healthy fat and fiber
sources.
Protein – This nutrient is very essential
for your child’s bodily functions. For instance, did you know that a child will
need 9 essential amino acids that can only be sourced from his food? Some of
the best sources of protein are milk, fish, lean meats, and dairy products.
Also, there are some vegetables that have protein but usually, these are incomplete
and must be consumed along with other excellent protein sources.
Fruits & Vegetables – Your child must
eat at least 5 portions of fruits and vegetables. Depending on your child’s
size, activity level and age, the portion size can be adjusted. A portion is
equal to the size of your kid’s hand.
Fats & Sugar – You need to limit your
child’s intake of fats and sugars. For fats, some of the healthy sources
include seeds, oily fish and nuts. Do not totally omit fats in his diet because
this can also help in vitamin and mineral absorption. For sugary treats, such
as pastries and biscuits, give it only during special occasions because eating
too much may result to obesity and other health issues in the future.
About the author: Myrna Golernme wants to
ensure her child’s healthy growth and development. She is very thankful to pediasurearabia.com
for providing helpful tips and tricks.
