by Lilian Okello

Created on: July 09, 2008

NUTRITION AND HEALTH FOR YOUR CHILD.

One of the biggest challenges facing parents during their children's school going years is feeding them right to ensure that they get the proper nutrients to foster healthy physical and mental growth. Most of us are well aware that fried, refined or preserved foods and fizzy drinks are not good for children, but the fact that three out of five children are fussy eaters, puts an overwhelming pressure on parents.

Digging into a bag of greasy shop bought chicken and chips occasionally wont do your child any harm, but doing the same everyday certainly will. According to research, all foods can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet; you only need to get the right balance right. With the following guidelines, you can allow your children to eat the foods they adore within limits, while ensuring that they are getting the right fuel for all their needs.

THE RIGHT CARBOHYDRATES:
Carbohydrates provide the fuel children need. All the body organs derive energy from glucose, the simplest form of starch, but the brain and the nervous system are the largest consumers. When carbohydrates are eaten, they are broken down into glucose, which is then delivered to the rest of the body via the blood. The brain consumes more glucose than any other organ, that's why your child will be hungrier than usual after his exams or studying.
Rather than packing glucose-enriched energy drinks and sugary snacks for your child, opt for unrefined fibre-rich foods such as whole- wheat bread, oats and whole grains such as roast maize. Sugary biscuits, pastries and glucose drinks may provide a temporary boost of energy, but the kind that depletes just as fast, leaving your child feeling tired, irritable, thirsty and unable to concentrate on his work.Besides, too much sugar will affect your child's dental health. Complex carbohydrates take longer to digest than refined ones, providing a more steady and consistent source of energy.
Avoid packing crisps and other ready-to-eat snacks, as they are loaded with salt, which affects calcium absorption, rendering poor bones, and can result in high blood pressure in adulthood. Keep salt to a minimum even when cooking at home.

PLENTY OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES:
Most children love fruit, and getting them to eat a couple of servings per day is no problem. Fruits are best eaten raw, and can be combined into a simple fruit salad to provide your child with essential nutrients. Fruits also contain fructose-natural fruit sugar which is

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>