At Feed the Children, we believe that food should be fun for kids. Cooking and eating can be a great way for kids to explore their likes and dislikes, while developing a healthy relationship with their bodies, food, and nutrition. They can even become pint-sized professionals, like the kids on MasterChef Junior!
But one thing a child should never have to do with food is worry about it. One in five children in the USA doesn’t know where their next meal is coming from. Having enough to eat is crucial for a child’s physical, mental and emotional development, and the impact of hunger can last long past childhood.
Feed the Children has been at the forefront of the anti-hunger movement in the US for decades, and are excited to work with MasterChef Junior to raise awareness for this issue.
Nutrition Tips for National Nutrition Month
Eat meals together
Studies have shown that eating together tends to promote more sensible eating habits. When kids eat with their parents, they are more likely to consume the USDA recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables. Additionally, it helps them handle the stresses of daily life and tends to lower the rates of obesity in both children and adults.
Eat a balanced breakfast
Even if a child just has an apple with a glass of milk in the morning, it makes all the difference. Choosing a breakfast that is rich in fiber and protein jumps starts the brain and makes it easier to maintain energy throughout the day, which is vital for school-age children. They can better concentrate in class and participate in physical activities without potential exhaustion.
Make sure children have plenty of protein
Growing children need ample protein. Children who don’t get enough protein can suffer from poor concentration, joint pain and fatigue. According to a Harvard study, millions of young children don’t get enough protein due to food insecurity. Parents who provide their children with lean meats, eggs, nuts and low-fat dairy products, can greatly improve their child’s digestive system. However, our bodies can only absorb about 30 grams of protein at once, so it should be consumed it in small amounts multiple times a day.
Get your child involved
One of the best ways to get children to play an active role in their nutrition is to involve them in the process of grocery shopping and cooking. While parents are having a balanced meal with their children, they can use this time to have an open dialogue about the importance of their health. By nature, children voice their likes and dislikes concerning food. Parents can use their opinions to craft a healthy routine for their future.
Related Reading
