Children (2-12 years)

Childhood is a period of continuous growth and development, to ensure that this achieved optimally, it is important to give children a nutritionally adequate & well-balanced diet

Key Nutrients

• Protein, for growth & repair of tissues and muscles and support the transition to puberty
• Calcium, for bone growth and development
• Vitamin D, for strong bones and absorption of calcium
• Iron & Folic acid, for red blood cell production and prevention of anemia
• Vitamin A, to support eye health and prevent infections
• Vitamin C, for immunity

Heathy tips for children

• Include all food groups to ensure optimal nutrition along with adequate intake of water
• Make the plate colorful by including variety of fruits and vegetables
• Encourage involvement in food preparation for easy acceptance of new foods
• Encourage physical activity for optimal growth
• Ensure sufficient consumption of milk and milk products
• Present finger foods to preschoolers
• Emphasize on the child's likes and dislikes

References:

• Srilakshmi, B. (2002). Dietetics (Revised. New age international publication).
• Dietary Guidelines for Indian- A Manual; ICMR, National Institute of Nutrition.
• Infant and young child feeding- WHO
• Healthy diet- WHO
• Early Childhood Nutrition- UNICEF
• Infant and Young Child Feeding: Model Chapter for Textbooks for Medical Students and Allied Health Professionals. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2009. SESSION 1, The importance of infant and young child feeding and recommended practices.