an introduction
The child grows quickly during the first year of Umrah. During this period he needs nutritious foods to meet his nutritional needs. The child needs more than three meals during the day to meet his growth requirements. Children differ in food types and times of eating. And some children refuse to eat certain types of foods, preferring to eat sweets and high-fat foods, and here comes the role of mothers in encouraging children to eat healthy food.
Foods should be included in daily meals
There are some foods that must be found daily in children’s meals to get their daily nutritional needs for nutrients such as vitamins, proteins, and minerals important for the growth of mind and body.
- Milk and dairy products: The baby can be given three cups of milk daily and can be replaced with dairy derivatives if the child does not want to eat milk. Milk can be added to fruit juices and daily meals so that the child can benefit from the properties of milk that helps strengthen bones.
- Fruits and vegetables: After the age of the year, the child can eat fruits and vegetables. Fruits can be crushed instead of boiled to preserve the vitamins in them. Vegetables can be boiled with a small amount of water and water is kept for important elements of the body and mind.
- Whole grains and rice: Whole grains contain vitamins and minerals that support the work of the immune system, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth.
- eggs: Eggs are the full proteins that feed and help the child grow, and the child can be given eggs in breakfast to provide him with the energy and activity he needs during the day.
- Fish and meat: Fish and meat are among the main sources of protein necessary to build tissues and muscles. Fat is a key element that helps the growth of the visual system and stimulates the movement of the brain.
Foods to avoid
- Salt and sugar: Sugar and salt should be minimized in children’s diets; they increase children’s stress rate, cause mood swings and sleep problems.
- Sweets and juices manufactured: Children should not be allowed to eat large quantities of sweets, juices containing preservatives and artificial sweeteners, stimulants such as tea and coffee should not be taken to contain caffeine, and children should not be given soft drinks because they contain a large amount of sugar as well as preservatives harmful to children’s health.
Organizing children’s meals
- Take care of children eat basic meals.
- Give children snacks between meals.
- Ensure that the meals are balanced and contain nutrients necessary for the growth and development of children.
- Ensure that there is no sensitivity to certain nutrients; because this can cause poisoning of the child.