Plan Your Child's Nutrition


© Walt Samuel

In the new millennium, more and more people are focused on their nutrition and diet. For the past few years, millions of resolutions have been to lose weight. And a good percentage of those that make resolutions to lose weight will have the same resolution the next year and the next. While you prepare to fit in that size 8 pair of pants again, help your child to a healthy and more energetic childhood. In the paragraphs to follow is a guide to nutrition from birth, since that is where it starts anyway, to adulthood.

It is important to maintain good nutrition practices throughout life. Know that the best provider of nutrition in infants is breast milk. Not only does it promote growth, bit it also helps make the immune system stronger. Babies that are not breast-fed aren’t left out. There are several formulas out that supply just the right amount of nutrients similar to these in breast milk.

Growing up, good nutrition in children over two is quite the same as for adulthood. Two-year olds consume a variety of foods that contain carbohydrate-rich grains and fruits and vegetables, a good source for minerals, fiber, and energy. Other foods like dairy products, lean meats, poultry, eggs, and nuts also contribute to growth and development.

Adolescents require extra nutrients to support growth spurts. Growth spurts in girls start at age 10 or 11, peak at 12, and end at 15. Boys begin at 12 or 13 years of age, peak at 14, and end at 19. Iron and calcium (1200 milligrams daily) are important in building healthy bones. A calcium-rich diet can avoid osteoporosis in later years and by eating 3 servings daily from the milk, yogurt and cheese groups, a calcium-rich diet can be met.

To ensure a functional day at school, make sure your child eats at least three times a day, starting with breakfast. Children usually can’t eat large meals at one time, so for lunchtime, pack a nutritional, but filling, snack along with lunch to hold your child over until he gets home.

At first glance, it looks like a lot of work to watch what your kids eat. Between picking the right foods and wondering if 3 cookies were too much is enough to pick your brain a little. Just use your good judgment and common sense and you’ll be just fine.

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