NUTRITION FOR CHILDREN

 Nutrition plays an important role in the growth of children.  Different stages progress from changing appetites to forming eating habits and making independent food choices.  Children will choose a balanced diet if food is made available to them.  Never force or bribe children to eat.

Eating habits of school age children are usually established by the time they begin school.  Offer a variety of foods.  Emphasize low-fat and high-fiber foods.  Promote regular physical activity to help maintain normal weight.  Avoid high-fat or heavily sugared snacks.  Encourage fruits and vegetables.  Air-popped popcorn,  pretzels, dried fruits, and low-fat yogurts are good snack choices for school-aged children.

Eating a balanced diet during the teen years is important for development.  Depending on the level of activity, teens need 25 to 30 calories per pound of body weight each day.  Active male teens need almost 1000 more calories  each day than females.