subject: Healthy Food Is Not Just For New Age Enthusiasts-make Sure Your Babies Or Toddlers Are Eating Right [print this page] Nutrition is a vital part of the development of humans, plants, and animals alike. There is a delicate balance that must be met in order for a person, especially a child, to develop properly. When children are younger, parents encourage them to eat fruits and vegetables, but it is generally up to the child what is eaten. It is up to you as a parent to ensure that your baby or toddler is getting the right nutrients each day to grow strong and healthy. There are many questions in the modern age when it comes to health, but by following some simple rules, you will ensure that your baby or toddler will grow into a self reliant adult that makes healthy eating decisions. It starts from the very first bite of food.
The very start of great nutrient and vitamin intake for your baby begins with the pregnancy. You need to ensure that you are taking all vitamin supplements regularly and maintaining a healthy diet. Even while breast feeding, you should stay away from toxins and chemicals including alcohol and caffeine. These chemicals are transferred directly to your child through your body. It is essential to drink lots of water and stay healthy while your child depends on you. Keep these great habits up to promote your child's own health in the future.
Toddlers should also be eating a variety of fruits and vegetables. As large amounts of fruits and vegetables contain lots of water that fill their stomachs, it is important that you balance this with protein and whole grain, complex carbohydrates. Children also need lots of calcium to stay healthy. Children are growing critically until they are 18 or older, so each day has to be filled with the right foods. More whole food and less processed and sweetened foods should be consumed. Sugar should never be added to drinks and rarely added to foods. Choose natural sweeteners that are less processed or stick to juice. Make sure that they are outside so that they can absorb calcium with the vitamin D they are getting from the sun.
You should try to eat lots of different things with your children to provide them with an open mind about new foods, and this also gives them the most nutrients possible. If you have a picky child, try disguising the vegetables and fruits that they don't like with the foods that they love. For example, chocolate milk has long been a way for mother's to get young children to get more calcium. Try vanilla soy milk for the same effect with less processed sugar. Eating organic foods can also be great.
You can ensure that your child is developing great eating habits by setting an example and doing your research. Keep improving your own habits as well. Your entire family will be better off for it.
