2023-07-13 14:00:00
Written by Enas Al-Banna, Thursday, July 13, 2023 05:00 PM
Nutritional deficiencies can have a significant impact on a child’s growth and development. Adequate nutrition is crucial during childhood, as it supports proper growth, brain development and overall health.
Undernutrition and child health
According to onlymyhealth, it can affect Undernutrition on a child’s growth potential If there is not enough intake of essential nutrients, such as protein, calcium, iron and vitamins that can stunt their growth.
A lack of protein can hinder muscle and tissue development, while an insufficient calcium intake may harm bone strength. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nutritional deficiencies are responsible for regarding 45% of deaths in children under the age of five.
Follow a varied and balanced diet
To ensure optimal growth, it is essential to provide a well-balanced diet rich in diverse nutrients. This includes a variety of food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and dairy products, so that the child consumes all the required nutrients.
Promote regular meals and snacks
Encouraging regular eating patterns by providing three well-balanced meals and two to three nutritious snacks throughout the day helps maintain a consistent nutrient intake.
Ensure foods rich in calcium and iron
The report recommended, “Calcium is essential for bone health, so incorporating dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt into their diet is essential.” Providing iron-rich foods such as lean meats, beans, fortified cereals and green leafy vegetables with their diet will support red blood cell production and prevent anaemia.”
Consider supplementation when necessary
In some cases, doctors may suggest giving your child nutritional supplements to help with a deficiency. She added, “These supplements can include multivitamins, which contain important vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to the body. They can be useful if your child does not eat a variety of foods, has a small appetite, or needs certain nutrients.”
She said multivitamins often contain vitamin D which is important for strong bones and a strong immune system, but before giving any supplement to your child, it is always best to speak to a doctor and get their advice, they will know what is best for your child’s specific needs.
water consumption
Water consumption is critical for children’s growth and development.” The report suggested the following guidelines for water consumption, “When your child is between 6 and 12 months old, you can start giving him a little water with his meals. It’s best to use a cup instead of a bottle, usually regarding 4-8 ounces of water a day is enough for them.
“Between 1 and 3 years old, your child will need regarding 1-4 cups of water a day. This can help keep them hydrated and healthy, but as they get older, from 4 to 8 years old, they should try to drink around 5-8 cups.” of water each day. Remember, this can change depending on how active they are, the weather, and what their body needs.”
Once your child reaches 9 years of age or older, their bodies grow larger, so they need more water. At this age, it is important for them to drink around 8-10 glasses of water a day to stay hydrated and feel comfortable.
However, this can vary depending on factors, such as activity level and climate. Ensure that the child drinks enough water throughout the day to maintain hydration which may support the child’s overall health.
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