Proper nutrition is crucial for the healthy growth and development of children, especially during the first two years of life. Children in the developmental stage need a number of vitamins and minerals such as iron and vitamin D which are specifically important, to grow strong and healthy. Fostering good nutrition early in life can help shape the development of healthy eating behaviors and a positive outlook toward healthy foods in children. Here’s some feeding tips.
Breast milk is an infant’s best food. Breast milk is the ideal first food and is the gentlest on a baby’s systems. If you are able to breastfeed, give it a try because breastfeeding is valuable for the wellness of both parent and baby.
If you are unable to breastfeed or decide to not breastfeed, adequate nutrition can be supplied via iron-fortified formulas. Commercial formula has sufficient minerals, vitamins, calories, fats, and proteins for growth, but formula does lack the immune factors found in breast milk.
Introductions of new foods and beverages are recommended to start at 6 months. Early introductions of all-natural, minimally processed fruits and vegetables promote long term interest in regular consumption of fruits and vegetables. Refrain from offering highly processed foods.
Establish a routine schedule for mealtime. Maintain a routine and engagement in a comfortable environment during mealtime. It is important to engage in sustained interactions. Having engaged conversations make a difference in brain development and efficient processing of information. A structured, consistent mealtime routine helps parents understand their child’s cues and feeding behaviors and also builds bonds with parent and child.
Expect fluctuations in your child’s eating behaviors throughout their developmental stages. Your child may not eat the same amount every day or the same as other children. Appetites change. Interests change. Do not become discouraged. Consistently offer nutritious wholesome food that meets your child’s nutritional needs for growth and development.
American Academy of Pediatrics
https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/InfantandToddlerNutrition/index.html
Eating foods that are in season is beneficial in that you are consuming foods that have naturally ripened therefore increasing the availability of the nutrients. Consuming foods in the proper season also enhances the flavor of those foods due to the reduction in chemical interference.
I hope that you find this information helpful. Remember to consistently offer a variety of nutritious whole foods to your little one to help foster their interest in natural food early on.
Toddlers and young children can be incredibly picky eaters. Picky eating is considered a normal part of childhood development. Picky eaters can be challenging for parents and guardians. Here I offer a few tips to help maneuverer these types of encounters.
The content on this site is provided for informational and educational purposes only, and is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to replace advice or treatment from a physician. It is recommended that all readers and viewers of this content consult with a qualified health professional concerning any health issues. Any products discussed or endorsed are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease, or to be used as the basis for treating a particular symptom or disease. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should seek the advice of a physician before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.
