We all want the best for our little ones. We want them to have the best schooling to open as many doors as possible for them in the future. We want them to live in a safe home so that they have security. We want them to enjoy a wide range of activities and hobbies to develop their interests and passions. The list goes on. But one area that many of us should pay more attention to is their diet. When it comes down to it, our children are entirely dependent on us when it comes to what they eat. We decide the food that fuels them when we provide them with each and every meal. So, it’s up to you to make sure that the meals that you provide them with aren’t just delicious, but are also nutritious and varied. Here are some tips that will help you to prepare the best quality meals possible for your children!
Calories
First and foremost, consider the calorie intake you’re providing your children with. Calories are simply a unit of measurement that determines how much energy is in different types of food. Every child needs a certain amount of calories per day based on their age, sex and activity levels. Providing your children with too few calories can result in them becoming underweight. Providing them with too many calories can result in obesity. Both conditions come with an array of health issues and can also result in unhealthy eating habits throughout their adult lives. Ask your doctor for recommendations on how many calories you should be providing your children with.
Balanced Meals
The meals that you prepare for your children should be balanced. This means ensuring that they get all of their food groups in moderation. You shouldn’t be completely cutting out specific types of food as “bad”. Everything (age appropriate) is okay in proportion. So, make sure that they’re getting plenty of protein from fresh fish delivery and healthy cuts of meat or plant based sources of protein. Make sure they’re getting carbohydrates from wholemeal bread, rice and pasta. You should also be ensuring that they get their five a day with fresh fruit and vegetables. Healthy sources of fat are good and sugar can be consumed in moderation.
Variety
Variety is great for kids as they grow up. Introducing your kids to a wide range of foods from a young age can help to develop their palate and reduces your chances of raising a fussy eater. While it can be easy to stick to the same meals on repeat throughout each week, you should try your best to introduce more world foods that will open your children’s eyes to different cultures and cuisines. Test out different recipes that you’re unfamiliar with and encourage your children to try them too. There are plenty of free recipes online nowadays.
These are just a few tips that will really help you to introduce your children to a healthy and varied diet growing up. Each step will make all the difference, so make sure to take each into consideration!
Disclosure: This is a featured post