Healthy nutrition is extremely important from a young age because of rapid growth and development. Eating habits are formed in the first few years of life which means, poor nutrition during this period can cause problems, for example, increased risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
Growing children need plenty of energy (calories) and nutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals). By giving your child a balanced diet, you are ensuring that they are getting all the essential vitamins, and minerals.
Below is a list of nutrients that children need:
- Calcium and Vitamin D
- Iron
- Vitamin D
- Omega-3
The sooner you introduce healthy eating to your children the easier they will be able to develop a healthy relationship with food that can last a lifetime. The main benefits of a healthy diet include the following:
- Stabilizes their energy.
- Improves moods and way of thinking.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Prevent mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.
- Prevents physical health problems like diabetes and heart conditions.