A balanced diet for kids includes food from the five major food groups every day, according to Keep Kids Healthy. While children need some amount of fat in their diet for proper development, oils, sugar and saturated fats should be given sparingly to prevent obesity and other childhood health complications such as diabetes and weak bones. Children who grow up eating a balanced diet tend to continue the practice as adults.
Features
A balanced daily diet contains about six servings of grains for kids 2 to 6. A serving might include a half piece of bread, 1/2 cup of cereal or cooked rice. Three servings of vegetables are an important part of a balanced diet with 1/2 cup constituting a single serving. Two pieces of fruit and 2 cups of milk make up a part of the daily requirements. Children should eat about 2 to 3 oz. twice a day from a protein source such as lean meat, peanut butter, soy or beans.
Warnings
In addition to avoiding foods that are high in sugar and saturated fats, other food should be avoided to maintain a healthy diet and prevent choking. According to Keep Kids Healthy, youngsters under 6 do not need various hard foods that easily catch in the throat. Common foods that cause choking include popcorn and peanuts, whole grapes, hard candy and gum and tough meats.
Prevention/Solution
Families should participate in a healthy diet to promote balanced eating at mealtimes. Parents who shop for healthy alternatives not only benefit from the healthy eating habits themselves, but they also provide healthy examples to their children. Children of obese parents are more likely to become obese, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Additionally, children with a family history of diabetes and heart disease also are more prone to developing the conditions because of imbalanced diets.
Considerations
A balanced diet relies on a lifestyle as much as it does on the groceries in the home. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, physical activity should be incorporated daily for a child's optimum health and development. A healthy breakfast that consists of whole grains, fruit and dairy set the tone for the day. Children should only eat until they are satisfied and should not be forced to finish meals. Additionally, family meals, eaten while sitting with no outside distractions, contribute to the development of healthy eating habits and an overall balanced lifestyle.
Expert Insight
Parents play an important role in providing a balanced diet for their children in addition to being good role models. According to the Weight-control Information Network, there are a number of initiatives parents can take to ensure their children are eating healthy, despite their objections. Cooking methods should include mostly baking, poaching or roasting, while cooks should limit salt and fat in recipes. Stock up on healthy snacks and offer kids fresh fruit during the day. Include kids in the meal-planning process to teach them about healthy choices and all the available options.
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