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Healthy foods for kids not only give them the required nutrition but also leave them full, thus helping in preventing overeating later. Moreover, they help kids develop good appetites and digestion. Also, they are packed with essential fatty acids, iron, calcium and zinc that strengthen bones, muscles and the immune system.
Do you know what foods kids should eat to stay healthy? Or maybe you don’t even want to feed them anything because they already seem too big. Well, worry no longer! This article covers some of the healthiest foods (and drinks) for kids.
Reasons Why You Should Give Kids Healthy Foods
1. They Help Prevent Obesity
Kids who have a balanced diet tend to be more physically active than those who don’t. And physical activity is one of the most important ways to prevent obesity. Being obese can lead to other diseases like cancer and heart disorders.
2. They Strengthen Bones and Immune System
When we were children, we used to play all sorts of games and sports. But as we grow older, we rarely do this. However, it is highly recommended that kids keep themselves physically fit and active so that their bodies become strong and resilient.
3. They Keep Them, Full
If you look at your kid, chances are he or she will probably not be able to finish his meal if it isn’t nutritious enough. And this is why you need to make sure that they eat healthy food every day. It has been proven that eating wholesome food helps kids feel fuller and faster.
4. They Are A Good Source Of Fibre
Fibre is an essential part of our body. The more fibre you consume, the easier it is for your digestive system to work properly. It also keeps us regular without any side effects.
5. They Are Rich In Iron
This mineral is vital for our growth and development. It is also found in red meat which makes it difficult for vegetarians and vegans to get a sufficient amount of iron.
Top 10 Healthy Foods for Kids
· Milk/dairy products
Milk is rich in nutrients like potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamin D, B12 and phosphorus. It provides protein-rich food for growing kids who need more proteins than fats. In addition, it helps build strong teeth and bones, improves immunity, as well as prevents constipation. However, avoid whole milk if your kid cannot tolerate lactose.
· Veggies
Kids love vegetables, especially green veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, cabbage etc. They provide important vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, C, E, and K, folate, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid and minerals like iron, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, iodine, molybdenum, chromium, nickel and magnesium. Besides, kids can get fibre from these vegetables as well.
· Fruits
Apples, pears, oranges, bananas, mangoes etc., fruits are high in fibre and low in sugar content. Even though they may be slightly higher in calories, fruit juices are still a better choice. They have many benefits for kids including improving eyesight, boosting energy levels, fighting allergies and infections, as well as building a strong immune system.
· Chicken
If your kid does not like eating chicken or eggs then opt for soy-based meat alternatives. These meats are less likely to cause allergic reactions in children than the real thing. Another option is to give your child egg whites instead of regular eggs. Not only are these healthier, but they also taste great!
· Fish
Oily fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna etc., contain Omega 3 fatty acids which help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol level, improve brain development and protect against cardiovascular problems like stroke and hypertension.
· Meat
If you want your kid to eat lean red meat, go for beef rather than pork. Pork contains much more fat per unit weight compared to other types of meat. Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, calcium, and vitamins B12 and D.
· Nuts/Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, pecans, pistachios etc., are very good sources of monounsaturated fats (good fats), essential amino acids and antioxidants. They are loaded with nutrition and don’t affect blood pressure or cholesterol level.
· Beans
One cup of beans contains almost half the amount of sodium found in one cup of cooked white rice. This makes beans ideal for people looking to control salt intake. Also, they are a rich source of dietary fibre, folic acid, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, zinc and manganese.
· Yoghurt
Yoghurt is a perfect healthy dessert that supplies probiotics – live bacteria – along with calcium, potassium, protein, and vitamin B 12.
Final Thoughts.
Kids need variety when it comes to their diet plan. But make sure this variety includes all the nutrients mentioned above. And most importantly, let them enjoy what they eat! As a parent you need to make sure that you play online casino games so that you can win more money to buy more healthy foods for your kids .