What Are Daily Food Requirements For Children?

Children have unique nutrition needs that go beyond simply serving up a smaller-sized adult plate. Their calorie (energy), protein, vitamin and mineral needs vary with age, sex and stage of growth. Proper nutrition is essential for adequate growth and development. Problem nutrients for children vitamin E, potassium, iron and dietary fiber. Foods rich in these nutrients should be emphasized.

Children Aged 1 to 3

Estimated Energy Requirement (EER) is the dietary energy intake measured in calories that is needed to maintain energy balance in healthy, moderately active Americans. There are EERs for every age group. A great deal of growth takes place the first year of life. After that, growth slows until the age of 4. Males and females aged 1 to 3 years, of normal weight, approximately 27 lbs, need 1,046 and 992 calories to maintain health, respectively, and 1.1 grams/kilogram (kg) of body weight versus adults, who need .8 grams/kg.

Foods for Children 1 to 3

Toddlers should eat a wide variety of foods daily. They require approximately three 1 oz. servings of grains/starches. This may be divided into six 1/2 oz. servings. Examples of 1/2 oz. servings from the grain group are 1/2 slice of bread, 2 to 3 plain crackers, or 1/2 cup of dry cereal. To meet calorie and nutrient needs, toddlers should consume 1 cup each of fruits and vegetables daily, divided into smaller servings. Examples of servings include 1/2 of a whole fruit, 1/2 cup of fruit juice, or 1/3 cup of cooked or raw vegetables. Children in this age group need 2 cups of milk or yogurt daily, and 2 oz. of protein foods. One serving may be 1 whole egg, or 1 oz. of cooked chicken, fish or meat.

Children Aged 4 to 5

When children reach the age of 4, total calorie needs increase due to growth spurts and further body/ mind development. Children of this age are very active. Males and females aged 4 to 5 years, of normal height and weight, approximately 41 inches and 43 lbs, need 1,742 and 1,642 calories daily, respectively. For children aged 4 to 5, protein needs are .95 grams/kg. It continues to be important that the foods children consume is nutritious. Because American children are at an increased risk of becoming obese starting during this time, sugary, fried and fatty foods should be limited.

Foods for Children 4 to 5

Compared to 1 to 3 year olds, children aged 4 to 5 need an extra serving of grains/starches daily, or four 1-oz. servings. This may be divided into 1/2 oz. servings, such as 1/2 slice of bread, 2 to 3 crackers, or 1/4 cup of cooked pasta. Colorful fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins and minerals. Children in this age group should strive to eat 1 cup (or the equivalent) of fruit and 1.5 cups of vegetables daily. This too may be divided into smaller servings, such as 1/2 of a whole fruit, 1/2 cup of fruit juice, or 1/2 cup of cooked vegetables. The recommendation for dairy products is 2 to 3 cups daily, as well as an serving of protein, or 3 oz. total. One serving may be 1 whole egg, or 1 to 2 oz. of cooked meat or poultry.

Dietary Fiber and Water

Dietary fiber needs for children is simple to calculate. Just follow the "age plus 5" rule or add 5 grams to the child's age. A 7 year old should consume 12 grams of fiber daily. The AI level for water for children aged 1 to 3 is 1.3 liters daily and for those aged 4 to 5, it is 1.7 liters. Children aged 6 to 11 have a Food Guide Pyramid specifically designed for their reading level; however, they can consume adult-sized portions and the adult food pyramid minimum recommended servings from each food group.