Ways to Improve Child's Nutrition

Children may lag behind in academics, sports and various other fields if they do not get adequate nutrition. Therefore, to help children grow in a healthy manner and help them excel in their life, it is must to pay attention to their nutritional needs. Read on to find ways to improve nutrition of children.A child’s eating patterns start developing in her childhood itself. Since the beginning should be good, it is important to start her dietary habits with adequate nutrition. At this time, children are making rapid physical and mental progress. However, not paying attention to the nutritional needs of children, and children generally being picky eaters, they often lag behind. But, there are many simple ways in which you can ensure that your child gets adequate nutrition. As a bonus, your child also stays healthy and happy. In this articleA Healthy Breakfast for a Good DayEmphasise the Importance of WaterIntroduce New Foods with TimePlaytime is NeededAvoid Junk FoodLook for Supplements, if Needed1. A Healthy Breakfast for a Good DayBreakfast is the first and most important meal of the day. It restarts the energy levels of the day and helps in metabolism. Breakfast should be wholesome, healthy and filling. Some good options would be poha, upma, paranthas, idlis, and oats with milk or even vegetable sandwiches with eggs. You can also include milk and a fruit for extra protein and nutrition so that your child does not get hungry before lunchtime. Processed foods should be strictly avoided!2. Emphasise the Importance of WaterWater not only quenches our thirst, but it is very important for other bodily functions. Pack two bottles of water in your child’s bag, if needed. Explain to her the importance of drinking water and the harmful effects of too many sugary drinks and sodas. Cold drinks come with an unchecked number of calories and sugar, affecting their health in the long run. You can supplement water with yoghurt, fresh fruit and vegetable juices and milkshakes.3. Introduce New Foods with TimeIt is necessary to expand your child’s diet with time. Tell them that their taste buds need some time before they start to like a new food. Incorporate new foods into familiar meals and talk to them about it. Do this with one food at a time and be patient. Simply ordering the child to finish what is on her plate would not help either you or her. You could also try mentioning the health benefits of fish, for example how it helps her growing strong bones and being able to concentrate better in class. If nothing else works, whip up her least favourite vegetable into drinks, juices, dips and soups.4. Playtime is NeededYoung children need at least one hour of healthy exercise. Do not limit your child’s entertainment to the television, cell phone or video games. Even if they are not interested in a particular sport, just playing normal outdoor games in the field can provide the much-needed exercise. For more active options, dancing, rollerblading, roller skating, biking, swimming, skipping and playing hide-and-seek are great. If your child is interested in a particular game, make them join a coaching institute to boost their talent and confidence. Teach her to play kabaddi, kho-kho and hide-and-seek for physical exercise.5. Avoid Junk FoodDo not bring large amounts of junk food, or your child will find a chance to eat it. If needed, buy a smaller packet of chips rather than buying them in stock. Allow treats such as sundaes and ice creams once in a while. By having no junk food at home, your children will be more inclined to eat fruits, grains and vegetables to keep themselves full. Processed foods should be kept to a minimum as well. Avoid substituting real fruits for packaged fruit juices.6. Look for Supplements, if NeededChildren generally do not need supplements, if they follow a good diet. Yet, they do not always follow the perfect diet and become deficient in some nutrients. Once you have figured out the specific deficiency, give foods rich in that nutrient. You can also use supplements such as cod liver oil or multi-vitamin tablets, when needed after consulting your doctor.The key to nutrition is to keep your child interested in food. Encourage your child to help you in cooking. Assign age-appropriate cooking exercises to her. By incorporating these tips into your child’s dietary life, she will appreciate nutritious food and good health in the future. Moreover, a healthy body makes a healthy mind.What kinds of foods must be included in the diet of children? How to improve the appetite of children? How to develop healthy eating habits in children? Discuss here.