The National Institutes of Health recommend that children eat a health diet because proper nutrition is required for healthy development and physical growth. Children may have different nutrient and calories requirements based on their genetic history and stage of development, and parents should educate themselves about their children's changing needs.
Features
A healthy diet combines selections from the major food groups, and limits unhealthy choices such as fast food or junk food. The National Institutes of Health(NIH) suggest that a healthy diet for children consists of at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, protein selections such as lean meats, eggs, and nuts, and whole grain breads or cereals. Children should drink milk or water instead of sodas or fruit drinks that are high in sugar. In addition, the NIH suggests that food selections should be broiled or steamed as opposed to fried because this limits the use of fatty oils.
Considerations
A child's nutritional needs vary widely based on age and gender. The Mayo Clinic notes that very young children, between the ages of two and three years old, for example, may require much less protein than older children. When children reach the ages of four to eight years old boys may need a higher calorie diet than girls. Parents can consult nutritional resources that outline a child's needs based on his age and weight.
Nutrition and Cognitive Development
Sources at the University of Mississippi note that childhood nutrition is critical to proper cognitive development. Iron, for example, is necessary for the proper functioning of nerves. Children with iron deficiencies can sustain permanent damage to their brains. Children with poor diets may also have a more difficult time fighting off infections, causing them to have higher rates of illness. This can interrupt school attendance, which often contributes to lower academic performance and impaired academic development.
Parenting and Nutrition
Parents play a very important role in child nutrition. Sources at the University of Mississippi note that parents and caregivers should consult the Food Guide Pyramid when they are planning for meals. Children should be encouraged to try a wide variety of foods so they learn to eat well-balanced meals. Parents should also model healthy nutritional choices by avoiding fast food, junk food, or products high in sugar.
Expert Insight
Sources at the NIH and the Mayo Clinic note that a healthy diet also includes the consistent scheduling of meals. Children should always have a healthy breakfast, and they should not skip meals. In fact, sources at the University of Mississippi note that children who eat breakfast perform better in school. Healthy snacks throughout the day can also also a child maintain energy between meals.
Member Comments