Energy & Nutrient Requirements
The energy requirements of children increase rapidly because they are growing quickly and becoming more active. They have a high energy requirement for their size. To achieve this energy intake, foods that are high in energy (and also rich in nutrients) and eaten as part of small and frequent meals may be necessary for younger children (e.g. 4-6 year olds), who do not have large enough stomachs to cope with big meals.
Developing a balanced family lifestyle is important in the weight management of children.
A good supply of protein, calcium, iron and vitamins A and D is also necessary during this time. Calcium is needed for healthy tooth development and, together with vitamin D, helps make bones stronger. Childhood is an important time for tooth and bone development.
Children should be taught to think about dental hygiene and ways of preventing dental cavities. They should be encouraged to reduce the number of times a day that they have foods and drinks containing sugar and, if possible, to have them only at meal times. Brushing teeth regularly with a fluoride toothpaste should also be encouraged.
Iron rich foods, such as liver and red meat, are not always popular with children, so other ways of providing this nutrient may need to be found, e.g. offering paté or minced meat burgers. Children who are vegetarian must have alternative sources of iron, such as dark green leafy vegetables and lentils. Other useful sources include bread and some fortified breakfast cereals. Iron from plant sources is less well absorbed than iron from animal sources. Consuming vitamin C rich foods or drinks such as orange juice with a meal can increase iron absorption.