Are you confused about what your child needs to eat? If so, you are not alone. Proper nutrition is key to your child’s growth and development. Our pediatrician can provide the childhood nutritional guidance you need. Dr. Katherine Krieg and Dr. Sharon Novy at Children’s Oasis Pediatrics in Gilbert, AZ, provide a wide range of children’s medical services, including dietary and nutrition guidance.
These are some of the most frequently asked questions about children’s nutrition:
Why Is Proper Nutrition Important for Children?
Nutrients, vitamins, and minerals contained in foods are what fuel your child’s body. Muscles, bones, and major body systems all rely on eating healthy foods.
What Foods Should My Child Eat?
A good diet for your child should consist of a combination of:
- Lean proteins, including fish, turkey, and chicken
- Whole fruits, not fruit juices
- Vegetables, including green leafy vegetables like spinach
- Whole grains, including whole wheat, rice, and quinoa
- Dairy products, including milk, cheese, and yogurt
- For ages 1 year-2 years of age: Whole milk 16 oz per day for calcium
- For ages 2 years and older: Low fat milk 16 oz per day for calcium
- Note: after 1 Year of age, drinking more than 24 ounces of milk per day can cause chronic anemia that can become very serious.
- A Daily goal of 5 servings of fruits plus vegetables
What Foods Should My Child Avoid?
Your child should limit or avoid foods that are high in sugar, high in fat or have little to no nutritional value. Fast Food should be limited to 1-2 times per week at most.
Snacks should be consumed in limited amounts and should be healthy snacks like fruit.
How Can a Pediatrician Help With Proper Diet and Nutrition?
Our pediatrician is an expert at proper diet and nutrition for children and can provide you with guidance about:
- Your child’s nutritional needs
- Menu and meal planning
- Keeping a regular eating schedule
- Healthy snacks and meals
- Maintaining a healthy weight
Want To Know More?
To find out more about dietary and nutrition guidance and how your pediatrician can help, call Dr. Katherine Krieg and Dr. Sharon Novy at Children’s Oasis Pediatrics in Gilbert, AZ. You can reach them in the office by calling (480) 792-1012, so call today.