What to eat and what not to for children less than 5 years of age

Young kids need the same range of nutrient-rich food items as teens and adults, just in tiny portions. As quantity gets bigger, some parents have developed a twisted view of the amount of food preschoolers and toddlers require. With the guidance of one of the top child Specialists in Gurgaon, you can provide your kids a better diet. Feeding kids becomes less complex when adults know what children need to grow well and be fit.

Growth, Health and Development

Adequate nutrition for infants and kids less than 5 years of age is vital to ensure their growth, health and overall development to their full potential. Poor nutrition increases the risk of different illnesses, and is accountable, directly or indirectly. Not giving appropriate nutrition can also lead to childhood obesity which is a growing public health issue in various countries.

Defining a Young Kid’s Serving Size

An ideal serving size for kids from 2-4 years of age is about one-half an adult serving. It is a rule of thumb based on serving sizes suggested by the best paediatrician in Gurgaon. This suggestion is a basic guideline based on age and the level of activity performed by the kid. So, a serving of bread for a kid less than the age of 5 would be half of a slice.

Food Items Young Kids Need

  • Most young kids need to consume about 1,000 to 1,400 calories every day. It is better to distribute these calories in a healthy eating plan that is suited to your kid’s age and eating pace. Babies and toddlers need food items from all five healthy food categories: fruits, vegetables, dairy, protein, and grain.
  • Healthy food options have complete nutrients that are highly essential and needed for the growth, health, learning, and development of young kids. Your children should avoid saturated fat, sugar, foods high in salt, foods low in fibre and nutrients, drinks with lots of sugar and caffeine.
  • According to the trusted child Specialists in Gurgaon, kids between the ages of 2-5 need about 3 to 5 ounces of grains per day, ideally half of them whole grains. Just like adults, young children also need a wide range of vegetables including, green, red and orange ones. They can even consume mashed sweet potatoes and broccoli as well.
  • Focus on whole fruits rather than juice. When it comes to milk, 2 to 2½ cups every day is ideal for babies and young kids. Moreover, whole milk is the best option for children younger than 2. Whereas older children can consume lower-fat, calcium-rich options like low-fat milk, soymilk, cheese and yogurt.
  • For Proteins, 2 to 4 ounces total every day is the best for kids. You can mix up protein food items with poultry, eggs, soy products, cooked beans, unsalted nuts, lean meats, and nut butters.

To know more about the dos and don’ts for a perfect diet for your kids less than 5 years of age, consult the best paediatrician in Gurgaon.

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