Nutrition children - nutrition children
Infant nutrition is the most important external factor for growth and health during childhood. It is essential that parents, guardians and caregivers ensure that children are provided with adequate nutrition, according to their development and maturation.
During childhood, the body undergoes rapid physical, psychological and motor development. Therefore, the diet must meet the energy and nutrient needs essential to maintain vital functions and ensure proper growth and maturation of organs and systems.
Moreover, it is at this stage that eating habits begin to be established, which makes childhood the best time to instill a nutritional education that will accompany the child throughout his or her life.
This guide aims to help them make better decisions when planning a healthy, balanced and varied diet, which favors the integral growth of the little ones. However, if there is any doubt or health problem, it is essential to consult a doctor.
What should parents and caregivers know about feeding children well?
- Children's nutrition depends entirely on the care they receive from adults.
- It is crucial for the mother to maintain good nutrition and healthy habits from before conception until after breastfeeding.
- It is important to know and promote the benefits of breast milk during the first year of life.
- Knowing the nutritional value of foods is key to ensuring an adequate diet for infants.
- Food is closely linked to the emotional and affective development of children.
In addition to providing the necessary nutrients, it is fundamental:
- Create an environment conducive to communication and encourage physical and emotional contact during meals. These moments are ideal for strengthening emotional bonds with the child.
- Dedicate the necessary time to feed the little ones, respecting their pace, which is usually slower. It is important to be patient so that they accept and enjoy the food.
- Do not force children to eat what they do not like or to continue eating when they are no longer hungry.
Importance of healthy eating in the early stages of life
Nutrition, along with sleep and physical activity, is one of the fundamental pillars of health at all stages of life.
In children, nutrition is crucial for several reasons:
- A healthy diet from conception is vital to ensure the nutrients necessary for the growth and maturation of organs and systems. This influences the physical, mental and emotional development of the child.
- For example: There is a strong relationship between maternal nutrition during pregnancy and the baby's early years with the child's brain development, which is essential for learning and cognitive development.
- Children's digestive organs are still developing, so they are more sensitive to the effects of an unhealthy diet, such as high intakes of sugars, fats and salt.
- A well-nourished child has a lower risk of suffering from disorders such as obesity, anemia or tooth decay, which can affect their health in the future.
- Breastfeeding and a balanced diet strengthen the immune system, helping to protect the body from disease.
- Eating habits established in childhood are difficult to change later in life. Most food preferences and aversions are formed before the age of three.
Health disorders associated with poor nutrition
- Stunting: Growth requires a continuous supply of energy and nutrients. Deficiencies in protein, energy or zinc can stunt children's growth.
- Anemia: Anemia, especially that caused by iron deficiency, affects children's growth and psychomotor development. It can also impact brain function.
- Overweight and obesity: Excess fat tissue in the body increases the risk of diseases such as diabetes and heart problems.
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