The best way to increase calories in underweight children is to feed them a balanced, nutritious diet with foods from all food groups. For children over age 5, pediatric dietitian Jacqui Lowden from Manchester Children's Hospital suggests a diet similar to an adult's, with three meals and snacks through the day. For children under age 5, Lowden suggests a diet higher in fat and lower in fiber.
Nuts
Nuts are relatively high in calories, but also contribute healthy fats, protein, vitamins and minerals. Combine nuts with dried fruit for a healthy snack. Add nut butters to toast, fruit, smoothies, oatmeal and baked goods. Virginia Cooperative Extension warns nuts may cause choking in young children and advises to find out if the child is allergic before feeding nuts or nut butters.
Avocados
Avocados provide all 13 essential vitamins. They are also high in monounsaturated fat and fiber. Avocados may be especially beneficial for younger children because of their high fat content. Squirt lemon juice on cut-up avocado for a snack, or use to top salads, tacos, incorporate in smoothies, or use as a dip for chips as guacamole.
Milk Powder
Adding milk powder is a way to add calories, calcium and protein if the child is able to have dairy. Add 1 tbsp. milk powder to hot cereals, smoothies, gravy, casseroles, soups and sauces. Children's Healthcare of Atlanta suggests adding 2 tbsp. of dried milk powder to 1 cup of whole milk and use to top cereals, make puddings, mashed potatoes, eggs, soups or plain milk to drink.
Oils
Choose vegetable-based oils as heart-healthy fat sources for ways to increase calories in kids. Some examples include dipping bread in olive oil, sauteing vegetables in oil, adding up to 1 tbsp. of oil to cooked cereals, making homemade popcorn with peanut oil, and adding olive oil to hummus for a healthy dip. Coconut oil may also appeal to children because of the sweet taste.
Granola
Granola is calorie-dense, and a serving size is typically only 1/4 or 1/2 cup. Choose granola that has whole grains and added dried fruit or nuts. Top yogurt with granola or use in place of lower-calorie cereals and add milk to it. Choose granola that is made with vegetable oils instead of butter or hydrogenated oils.
References
- NHS United Kingdom; Underweight Older Children; Sept. 28, 2010
- Virginia Cooperative Extension; Healthy Weights for Healthy Kids: What Should I Do if My Child Is Underweight?; May 1, 2009
- California Avocado Commission: Avocado Nutrients
- Children's Healthcare of Atlanta: High Calorie High Protein Diet for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Member Comments