Essential Nutrients For Growing Children

Health & FitnessAugust 4, 2017

Pediatricians working with children have provided information that between the ages of 2 and 12, children need essential nutrients for their growth. During this period they are growing quickly and need foods like protein, calcium, iron and vitamins. These products are critical for their growth and development. When children do not get the essential nutrients they can have stunted growth and it can also impact the mental and motor skills of the child. The nutrients specified can be found in most food groups including grains, fruits, vegetables, protein and dairy foods.

Parents of young children will have no difficulties in finding essential nutrients for growing children because they can be found in the products we have mentioned above. Let us now look at some of the essential nutrients which growing children must be given.

I’m really into good nutrition and keeping healthy! That said, I’m also addicted to candy – It’s my biggest weakness.

~Kina Grannis

Essential Nutrients From Berries

When parents are looking for nutrients like vitamin C, antioxidants and phytochemicals they can rely on products like strawberries and blueberries. These products can protect the healthy cells of the child from damage and boost the immune system. Berries can be used as toppings for ice cream, pancakes, cereal, and yogurt. Blueberry pancakes can also be made by adding blueberries to the pancake batter.

Eggs

Eggs are high in protein and are the richest sources of choline which is an essential nutrient that can aid in the development of the brain. Eggs can be boiled, fried, scrambled and also added to soups, porridge, rice, noodles or converted into desserts like custard.

Cows milk

This is a good source of calcium and phosphorus which are essential nutrients for building muscles and bones. Parents should be serving full-fat milk rather than low-fat or skimmed milk if the child is below two years old because the child is in need extra energy when growing unless the baby is overweight.

Whole-Grain Foods

The fiber in whole-grain foods is helpful in maintaining the digestive health of the child and preventing constipation. Giving the child whole-grain cereals and biscuits as snacks is a good way of giving them these foods. Whole grains can also be mixed with refined grains to get the child accustomed to the taste.

Meat

Meat is a fantastic source of protein and iron. Iron can optimize the development of the brain and function as well as supporting the immune system. Tender cuts of meat can be used to mix with eggs, bread crumbs, and mashed potatoes to make meatballs or patties.

Fish

Fish is a great source of protein and helps to build healthy muscles and bones. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in oily fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines and these acids can support the development of the eyes, brain and the nerves. Fish can be mixed with rice or potatoes to make sushi, fish balls or fish cakes.

Cheese

The content of protein, calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D is high in cheese and it is a good choice for the growth of bones. Children usually prefer the milder taste of mozzarella and American cheese along with European cheeses like Edam and Emmental. Cheese can be served as slices, cubes or strings or can also be used on toast and pizza.