Every parent wants their children to grow healthier & smarter. They want their children to excel in their studies & games as well. While it is a tough ask, but not impossible, it is important that the child grows with the right nutrients.
This is possible with the right kind of guidance in the form of the food pyramid for kids. With the pyramid, you can ensure that your growing child is receiving the right food nutrients, in the right quantities.
It is a guidance tool that can show you the food priorities. Besides, it provides you with several choices on the food items that you need to be given to young kids. This is an ideal way for parents to see that their kids grow up in the right manner.
Key components of the food pyramid
There are 5 groups that are present in this pyramid. Each of the groups contains a certain set of food items that can be given to children, according to their age. Besides, you need to provide the food items in the right quantities to your children.
Whole grains
The first is the whole grains. Whole grains are present in a wide range of food items like rice, wheat bread, and oats. They contain Vitamins & Minerals that are required for growing children. If your child is less than 8 years old, then you can try 4-5 servings. Older children can have more servings per week.
Fruits and vegetables
Fruits & vegetables are the next on this list. You may know that fruits & vegetables contain an abundance of antioxidants that are needed for the growth & development of the young body. Besides, it also helps in the maintenance of the overall health and prevents ailments.
You can consider 3-4 servings for children who are under 8 years of age.
Dairy products
Dairy products contain a high source of Protein, Calcium, and other food nutrients that are needed for the growing bodies.
Protein foods
This is another essential food nutrient that growing children need. Protein can be found in eggs, meat, and milk. When your child is above 10 years, then you can provide them with 3-4 servings per week.
Healthy fats
Though butter, ghee, and oils are not ideal for children, they can be consumed at moderate doses. They provide growing kids with the energy that they require. Besides, it also helps in their optimal growth and development.
Conclusion
The food pyramid can be used by parents to learn & understand how to prepare the right kind of food items, along with the quantities for their children. Besides, it can enable you to make the right choices, to develop good lifetime eating options.
We hope we have explained the food pyramid so that you can prepare a balanced meal for your growing children. More importantly, you can ensure that they do not miss out on the essential nutrients that their bodies require.
This can help set your child on the right path. However, if you still have queries about the food items for your child, then please consult a dietitian. They can guide you in-depth on how you may want to go about things.
