Not all kids are the same. Nor do they have the same food preferences. But one thing they have in common is the need for proper, wholesome nutrition. We as parents don’t need convincing on how important nutrition is for our kids. But have you ever wondered if your child is getting enough?
Inadequate nutrition in kids may lead to infection & impaired immunity in the long run. In addition to that, a gap in the consumption of micro and macro nutrients can take a toll on the child’s overall development and growth. This is why it’s very important to remember that even a child needs sufficient nutrition from the right sources, to be able to grow well.
Here are some things that I personally include and avoid in my children’s meal plan, to keep them healthy and strong as they grow –
Protein helps their little bodies to build and repair cells and enzymes, while providing the right kind of immunity boost. Foods rich in protein are seafood, lean meat, eggs, peas, and unsalted nuts and seeds to name a few. If your child prefers smoothies, add an organic plant protein powder to the mix. It’s a great way to start their day! One thing is for sure: majority of children just don’t get enough protein through their regular diet. Most parents THINK they do, but it’s not my experience meeting hundreds of parents and taking down diet plans for what their children actually eat.
Fresh fruits and veggies are a great source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals as they promote good health and a solid immune system. However, my strong recommendation is to supplement with a quality children’s multivitamin as well as additional IRON, and also a supplement providing phyto nutrients.
Omega-3 fish oils and other brain foods improve brain function, memory, and concentration for kids at school, especially with so much academic pressure! Salmon, eggs, walnuts, oatmeal, yogurt, berries and beans, are some brain foods rich in key nutrients that help the child’s body and brain to function at its fullest. Another thing to keep in mind is that their bodies don’t produce Omega-3 oils, but they still need it. So if your child is old enough to swallow soft-gels, food-grade Omega-3 supplements are highly recommended as well. Nutrilite also has an excellent soft gummie candy OMEGA 3 for children which is imported from Norway. This is ideal to give your children.
X Added sugar. Limit added sugars as they can make children feel full, and leave no room for health foods. Too much sugar can also lead to cavities, if children do not brush their teeth regularly.
X Packaged fruit juices are always a no, as they contain unnecessary amounts of added sugar as well, and very little fresh fruit (if any). So essentially, there’s no nutritional value in these drinks at all! Instead, go for fresh fruit juices, where your child can enjoy the benefits of nutrition and freshness, without the harmful effects of excess sugar and added ingredients.
Your child’s nutrition and growth always comes first. So instead of snacking on wrong snacks, you can help your child develop a taste for healthier options by beginning early on, and sticking to the discipline if it. Once you go down the path of feeding your kids snacks high in sugar and high in wrong fats, you will be shocked to see how quickly it leads to an actual addiction. Sure, kids can be very convincing when they want that extra piece of chocolate, but make sure you maintain a balance, and prioritize their health and nutrition first, with nutrient-dense foods. And then ensure they get a quality multivitamin and fruit and vegetable derived vitamin supplement on a daily bases to ensure they get at least the minimum RDAs needed!
References:
1. https://www.sharecare.com/health/healthy-eating-children-and-teens/why-do-children-need-protein
2. https://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/brain-foods-for-children#5
