2015-09-16
Joybynature.com Team
Sep
16

 

Kids have strange, dynamic and sometimes very picky tastes in food. And parents most often try to accommodate these preferences in the foods that they give to their kids. It may be the trick of hiding spinach in a paratha or adding unusual ingredients such as healthy veggies to a homemade pizza. Every parent is looking out for the best for their kids and wants to provide them with the most nutritious foods possible. But while trying so hard to feed your kids right, are you assured that all the right nutrients are entering your children’s systems? Take a look at this breakdown of the necessary food compounds that you need to give your kids and use it as a checklist the next time you plan a kid friendly meal.

  1. Protein

Proteins are the building blocks of the body and contribute to the development of the bones, tissues, muscles, skin and even blood. Our hair and nails are also made of protein. It is very important that children consume protein as part of their diet as their growing bodies need it to produce enzymes hormones and other chemicals. Protein also helps the body to build new tissues as well as repair damaged ones which happens frequently at a younger age. Legumes and pulses are an excellent source of protein. You can include a variety of beans in your meals to ensure your kids get the right nutrition.

  1. Carbohydrates

Although we try to cut out the carbohydrates from out diet as we grow older, it is an extremely vital element for a child’s growth. Carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy and work with the proteins and fats in kid’s bodies to build and repair muscle and tissues. Carbohydrates come in all sorts of food products such as sugars, starches and fibres. But it is best to avoid the sugary carbohydrates and opt for starch and fibres. Breakfast cereals are a great source of good carbohydrates. 

  1. Calcium

Calcium is of extreme importance in the early developmental stages of life. Consuming sufficient calcium is crucial to ensure the strength of bones and teeth. Besides this, calcium also helps in blood clotting and efficient functioning of the nerves, muscles and heart. Milk is one of the most widely known sources of calcium, but only that is not enough. Other sources such leafy vegetables are also necessary to supplement the body with calcium. Find fun and interesting ways to incorporate greens in your kid’s diet here.

  1. Iron

All the organs of the body receive necessary oxygen through the blood stream. Iron is the element that enables the correct functioning of the circulatory system and ensures that healthy blood is developed to provide all the cells with oxygen. A lack of iron in the body could also lead to anaemia which can greatly affect a child’s health. Dates and whole grains are good sources of iron for your kids. Use whole grains to make everyday chapattis and homemade bread to ensure your children are consuming sufficient quantities of iron. Find out more about it here.

 

  1. Vitamin A

Consumption of vitamin A is equally important for children as well as adults. It boosts growth, improves the immune system to keep infections at bay, enhances the skin, and also helps the eyes to adjust to varying light easily. It also assists the heart, lungs and kidneys among other organs to function to their best capacity. Apricots are a wonderful source of vitamin A and it is a fruit that is usually loved by most kids. But in case your child is not too fond of it, or you cannot find apricots easily, you can try apricot bars, which are extremely tasty and also packed with nutrients, as an alternative. To know more, click here.

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