The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends a whole diet approach in which no ingredients are banned, but rather sugar, fats, and oils are used strategically in small amounts to enhance flavor in highly nutritious foods. For example, a child may be more likely to eat vegetables or salads with a small amount of dressing added. Other AAP whole diet suggestions include:
The American Heart Association (AHA) cites good nutrition as a significant contributor to the delay and prevention of cardiovascular disease. Obesity is a major factor in the cardiovascular disease epidemic now facing the U.S. Because the atherosclerotic process (plaque build-up in the arteries) begins in youth, starting a consistently nutritious diet from infancy reduces the risk of heart disease, which typically culminates later in life. Research shows that as children grow, the percentages of those who consume fruits and vegetables on a daily basis decline. On a given day, one-third of 19-24-month-olds consume no fruit, while 60% consume baked desserts.
These trends have resulted in many children consuming well below the recommended daily values of essential nutrients during adolescence, while sodium intake exceeds recommended levels.
Because children generally have multiple nourishment sources outside of the home, education is an important factor in helping your child learn how to make good nutritional choices. Starting a healthy eating lifestyle at an early age will ensure that your child maintains optimal nutrition for a lifetime. Strategies for improving nutrition and eating habits while creating healthy lifestyles in children include:
Vitamin and mineral supplements might help you get adequate amounts of essential nutrients if you don’t eat a balanced diet. However, supplements can’t take the place of foods that are important for a healthy diet. Read more about the good and bad of dietary supplements.
If you would like more information about gastrointestinal (GI) digestive disorders and nutrition in children, please contact Dr. Mona Dave’s Frisco Office.