Fiber can be defined as a nutrient that can't be dissolved by our bodies. There are two types of fiber: insoluble and soluble. Insoluble fiber cannot absorb water. These foods tend to be tougher to chew. Insoluble consist of rigid foods such as whole grains, seeds, bran, and skin of fruits and vegetables. Soluble fiber can absorb water. These foods tend to have juicy like apples and strawberries. Soluble fiber consists of reasonable soft foods such as fruits, beans, oatmeal, and rice. Each fiber contributes to the health of your child, therefore it is essentially to serve a variety of fruits and vegetables per day.
The benefits are numerous. Among them are lower cholesterol levels. Soluble fiber is responsible for the removal of cholesterol. Feel this doesn't affect your child? You maybe wrong, cholesterol can be deposited at young ages, better safe than sorry. In addition, it may help with absorption of excess glucose. This helps if affected by Type II diabetes. If your child has a weight problem, fiber helps your child maintain weight by increasing chewing time. The longer you chew the more time it takes for your body to determine it is full. Plus, the bulk of fiber give then a feeling of satiety and it is calorie free. Other benefits include the prevention of constipation, and decreased chance of cancer.
However, when it comes to our children more fiber is necessarily better. Too much fiber can stunt growth by decreasing the availability of key nutrients such as calcium. The rule of thumb is "your child's age + 5" for children over the age of two.
Too much fiber is not a big problem among children in the United States, too little fiber is the problem. This may be one reason why children tend to have a higher tendency of obesity and frequent bouts with constipation and a higher incidence of heart disease later in life.
So, what's a parent to do? Teach them early. Introduce grains first then vegetables, then fruits, and finally meats. This may help your child develop a tolerance for fruits and veggies. Follow the food guide pyramid. This is designed for the optimal nutrition of your child. Grains, fruits and vegetables makes up the base of the pyramid, therefore it should be the base of their meal. Remember to keep his or her diet varied and balanced. No food has all the nutrients necessary for a health diet. Also, teach them about their diet. Learning can be fun and motivational. Buy magnets or stickers and give them to him or her when they try a new food. For more tips read Eat Your Veggies at http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/infa...
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