It is necessary for everyone to take care of the nutritional value of the diet for better health. From children to elders, everyone should take care of this. Health experts say this becomes even more important when it comes to nutrition for children. Paying attention to nutrition in children’s diets can help improve their physical and mental development.
Health experts say good nutrition is the foundation of a child’s development. Well-nourished children are better able to learn, play and do other things. On the other hand, children who do not get healthy and nutritious food may be at risk of developing many types of serious diseases due to malnutrition.
Mother’s first milk from the time the child is born, cereals rich in vitamins and minerals as they grow up, not only provide them better health but also help in protecting them from the risks of many serious diseases. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) continues to work to protect and promote child rights. Let us understand this in further detail.
Nutritional deficiency causes malnutrition
Data shared by UNICEF shows that malnutrition can be attributed to 50 per cent of the deaths of children under the age of 5. The problem of malnutrition also makes the condition of common infection serious, due to which the death rate has been seen high. Malnourished children not only have low immunity but it has also been seen to have a negative effect on their physical and mental development.
Children’s growth may be affected
Malnutrition status in children can affect their growth (stunting). Its negative effect has been seen on both the height and weight of the malnourished child. Stunting has declined steadily since 2000, according to UNICEF data, but more efforts are needed to reach the 2030 target. Similarly, the problem of being underweight in children also needs continuous efforts. For this, it is necessary to pay attention to the nutritional value of the diet.
Impact of covid pandemic
Healthy nutrition starts from the pregnancy itself, to which it is necessary to pay constant attention in the future. Nutrition of food promotes physical-mental development from childhood to adolescence. The circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic have worsened the already existing crisis of malnutrition among children. Corona has created a crisis for the livelihood of families, which has seen a decrease in the availability of nutritious and safe food.
Let us know which nutrients are required for the healthy development of children.
Vitamin C for kids
Vitamin C helps build and repair red blood cells, bones and tissues. It is essential for your baby’s gums to stay healthy and the blood vessels to be strong. To strengthen the immune system of children and protect them from the risk of infection, make sure to consume Vitamin-C items.
Vitamin d foods
Like Vitamin C, Vitamin D is also necessary to strengthen immunity. Childhood is a period of bone development and vitamin D is essential for bone health. Children with vitamin-D deficiency have a problem with osteoporosis, which can also affect the absorption of calcium. This nutrient can be supplied by eggs, milk, peanuts, nuts etc.
Protein is essential for growth
Consuming protein is essential for a healthy immune system and many other important body functions. Protein is essential for building muscles. Red meat, poultry, fish, milk, yoghurt, cheese, eggs, tofu and other soy products can be included in the diet for high-quality protein.
Calcium is necessary for children
Milk and other calcium-rich foods help build strong-healthy bones, but most children and teens don’t get enough calcium. Here it is necessary to ensure that children get calcium through the diet. Dairy products and nuts are their main sources, which must be a part of the daily diet.
