Need of proper Nutrition in Young Children

A good well balanced diet is what all growing children need unfortunately, with all the busy parents who do not have time to make a proper meal there are places like McDonalds and Dominos. While these places offer a cure for the hungry stomach they do not offer the growing body the vitamins, nutrients, and minerals that are needed. We must remember that just because kids have had plenty to eat, they might not have gotten what their bodies needed from the meal. An inadequate food intake can cause growing bodies to suffer tremendously.

Nutrition is very important for everyone, but it is especially important for children because it is directly linked to all aspects of their growth and development factors which will have direct ties to their level of health as adults. For example, a child with the right balance of omega fatty acids in their daily diet has a much better chance at creating a more solid foundation for their brain activity and capabilities later on. Likewise, a child who practices a low fat and cholesterol diet on a daily basis significantly improves their chances of preventing a heart attack; even if heart disease tends to be hereditary within your family.

Figuring out what to feed your children is the first step towards raising healthy eaters. Fast food restaurants with toys in the meals, convenience foods at the supermarket and busy lifestyles make healthy eating a challenge for many families. Offering your child healthy foods from all of the food groups creates balanced nutrition. Children's Hospital of Wisconsin recommends four milk product servings, two to three protein servings, four or more grain servings and four or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily for kids aged three to six. Choose whole grains and lean proteins when possible for the best overall health value.

Getting the child involved in the meal planning and preparation gives her hands-on experience with proper nutrition. She learns what goes into a healthy meal during the planning phase. Your child also learns how to prepare healthy foods when you allow her to help with the cooking. Picky eaters may be more likely to try a new food if they helped create it. Schools and teachers can make a big difference by creating awareness about this with kids and parents.

A house full of healthy, nutritious foods makes it easier for your child to develop proper nutrition habits. Provide your child with lots of healthy snack and meal options. Kids Health recommends giving your child some choice from a selection of healthy options. This empowers him while limiting his options to nutritious foods. Avoid power struggles over eating healthy foods, which may cause your child to resist even more.