QUIZ
-
Children can eat sugary foods because they need the energy.
True/False
-
Children should drink fat-free milk as full cream milk has too much fat.
True/False
-
Fruit juices can be a part of children’s diets.
True/False
-
Eating snacks will ruin children’s appetites for proper meals.
True/False
-
I should only serve my child what he likes to eat.
True/False
-
Children who do not eat enough will become malnourished.
True/False
-
My child is smaller than others his age. Something is wrong.
True/False
-
It is good for children to take a multi-vitamin supplement.
True/False
WHAT IS YOUR SCORE?
0 – 4 Put down that menu plan and pick up a book on child nutrition. It is back to basics for you!
5 – 6 You are off to a good start. Read more to build on what you already know.
7 – 8 Your child is in good hands with you! It is now time to put what you know into practice.
SO HOW DID YOU DO?
-
False.
Sugary foods and drinks are high in calories and low in nutrients, and can cause unhealthy weight gain and dental caries. While you may not want to totally prohibit sugary foods (this only makes them more attractive to your child!), do limit his intake.
-
False.
Fat-free or low-fat milk is not encouraged for young children. They need energy to grow and they can get this from full cream milk, which also contains essential fats.
-
True.
Fruit juices are nutritious. However, they are not a must in your child’s diet and cannot replace fresh fruits. When giving fruit juice, limit the amount as too much can lead to excess calories and weight gain. Also, go fresh (no added sugar) as store-bought juices often contain added sugar and other additives.
-
False.
Children have small tummies and can only eat so much. Healthy snacks, when given with nutritious drinks like milk, fruit juice or soya bean milk can boost their nutrient intake. The timing of the snack is important as eating snacks too close to mealtimes can affect their appetites. As a guide, offer snacks at least 1 1⁄2 hours before meals.
-
False.
Serving your child his favourite foods may make him more likely to eat, but he will not get variety in his diet (especially if he will only eat cookies and nothing else!). The trick is to give him a balanced, varied diet along with his favourite foods in each meal.
-
True.
However, remember what is ‘enough’ to you may be too much for your child’s tiny stomach. Have realistic expectations and continue offering a variety of foods at regular mealtimes and for snacks. You can monitor your child’s weight and height at regular intervals. As long as he is growing, you do not have to be overly concerned.
-
False.
Every child grows at a different rate. As long as your child is growing, gaining weight and active, he is fine. But if he loses weight or is pale and lethargic, do consult your doctor.
-
False.
A balanced diet daily will supply your child with vitamins and minerals in appropriate combination and amounts. Therefore, supplements are not necessary unless prescribed by a nutritionist, dietitian or medical doctor.
Comments