FAQs about Children's Nutrition
It is hard to find foods your child will eat besides mac and cheese, crackers, and cookies. But for the health of your child, they need to consume vitamin-rich, nutritious foods that will help with their growth, energy, and overall wellness.
Just as you know to include produce, grains, proteins, and fats in your diet, your child needs a balance of food and beverages from the basic food groups. Pediatric Drs. Robert Miller and Crystal Brown, with offices in Leonardtown and Waldorf, has the answers to your questions about your child's nutrition and can help you start them down the path for a lifetime of healthy eating.
How much should my child be eating?
The number of calories your child needs in a day varies depending on their age, gender, and activity level. The average toddler will require around 1,000 to 1,400 calories, and a child age 4 to 8 may need up to 2,000 calories. Tweens can require anywhere between 1,400 to 2,600 calories to stay energized and on a healthy growth trajectory. Talk to your Waldorf pediatrician about your child's specific calorie needs.
What foods should my child be eating?
Your child should consume a balance of nutritious foods at every meal, including produce, whole grains, fats, and proteins, either animal or plant-based. Carbohydrates, such as whole-wheat bread, oatmeal, and brown rice, are important for keeping your child's energy levels up. Protein options include dairy, soy, nuts, meats, fish, or eggs. You can offer fruits and vegetables that are fresh, frozen, or canned, but make sure any packaged version has limited salt and no added sugars.
Offering snacks between meals is fine, especially if your child participates in sports or other physical activities. Make sure to provide healthy options and not candy bars or chips.
Is it okay for my child to have treats?
A balanced diet has room for occasional sweets and salty snacks. Things like birthday cake, popcorn at the movies, and ice cream cones are fine in moderation. You can also try making healthier versions of favorites like brownies using applesauce instead of oil or baking potato slices instead of frying them. Let your pediatrician at our Leonardtown or Waldorf offices know if you have concerns about your child's sugar or salt consumption.
Contact your Waldorf pediatrician at 301-843-6996, or our Leonardtown office at 301-475-7222 today to schedule an appointment for your child.