A calorie is simply a measurement of energy. The unit measures how much energy your body obtains from eating a food. Adults often count calories as a way of controlling their food intake. But some children need to monitor their caloric intake to make sure they are consuming enough calories each day. For instance, children with cystic fibrosis must eat more calories than other children because their bodies struggle to absorb calories.
Add Calories to Food
One way to boost your child's calorie intake is to add ingredients to foods they would otherwise eat straight. The Lucille Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford University recommends adding 2 to 4 tbsp. of powdered milk to every cup of whole milk. Powdered milk can also be mixed into puddings, soups and yogurt. Every tablespoon of powdered milk adds about 33 calories and three grams of protein.
Eggs are another source of extra calories. One egg adds 80 calories and seven grams of protein. Egg substitutes also work well. For example, ¼ cup of an egg substitute will add 25 calories to a meal. Eggs or egg substitutes can be added to casseroles, mashed potatoes and macaroni and cheese. If you are preparing an egg dish, add extra eggs to the recipe. Do not serve uncooked eggs.
Add Side Dishes and Condiments to Meals
Another way to increase calories in a child's diet is to add side dishes to his meal. For example, serve your child creamy soup with his sandwich. Cream-based soups are higher in calories than clear soups, notes Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. If your child isn't interested in soup, serve yogurt or whole cheese with his meal. Instead of fresh fruit, offer dried fruits, such as raisins or dried bananas; dried fruits are higher in calories than fresh fruit.
Top foods with condiments. Examples of high-calorie condiments include mayonnaise, gravy, sour cream and grated cheese. Smear a layer of peanut butter on an apple or banana, or encourage your child to dip cooked vegetables into salad dressing.
Make High Calorie Beverages
If your child is a picky eater, add calories to her diet through beverages. Milkshakes are high in calories, and you can add extra calories by pouring in a tablespoon of powdered milk or wheat germ. Adding a packet of Carnation Instant Breakfast to whole milk provides 130 calories as well as a healthy dose of vitamins. High calorie supplemental drinks for kids are also available in your grocer's children's food section.
Fruit smoothies are another healthy option for adding calories and nutrients to a child's diet. In a blender combine 2 tbsp. of wheat germ, 1 cup of yogurt and 1 cup of whole milk with fruit. Soft fruit, such as a whole banana, peach or several strawberries, work especially well. Mix all the ingredients together to make a delicious, nutritious, calorie-filled fruit smoothie.
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