A healthy diet helps children to grow and learn. Nutrients and vitamins help to keep children’s body and organs healthy, as well as giving them energy. Nutritional food does not just help the physical aspects of a child; it also helps mentally. The right foods can help children to concentrate, sleep and also have a positive mental wellbeing.
So which Nutrients are important for my child?
Carbohydrates
The most vital source of energy and a nutrient used to build and repair tissue.
Carbohydrate Foods
- Bread
- Cereal
- Pasta
- Potatoes
Protein
This helps a child’s body to build new cells, fight infection, carry oxygen around the body and break down food.
Protein Foods
- Meat and Poultry
- Eggs
- Fish
- Almonds
Fats
Although fats are made out to sound like the Wicked Witch of the West, fats are needed to help the body use other nutrients, building hormones and are also a great source of energy.
Fat Foods
- Meat
- Fish
- Dairy Products
- Avocado
Calcium
Essential for helping a child grow healthy bones and teeth, aiding nerve and muscle function and also heart function.
Calcium Foods
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Cheese
- Broccoli
Fibre
This helps to produce bowel regularity and also reduces chances of heart disease in later life..
Fibre Foods
- Wholegrain Cereal and Bread
- Fruit
- Lentils
- Seeds
Iron
This nutrient is vital for helping blood to carry oxygen to cells all over the body.
Iron Foods
- Red Meat and Poultry
- Nuts
- Cabbage
- Beans
How can I make sure my child has these nutrients?
The best way to make sure your child has a healthy diet and relationship food is to have balance. This means that all foods are good but in context. This means more fruit and veggies, but the odd ice cream every now and again is fine. Aim for your child to have 5 servings of fruit and veg a day, and having 6 servings of grains a day.
How can Active Superstars help?
Active Superstars can help provide healthy sporting activities to help your child with their exercise. This paired with nutritious eating will make for a healthy, happy child!
Active Superstars offer high quality sports activities to keep children active, and to introduce them to healthy habits. To book your child into a dance or football academy, or to find out more call Active Superstars today on 0121 222 5464 or email info@activesuperstars.co.uk
