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Food The Nutrition Pyramid

March 27, 2009

It is easy to follow the guidelines that are given in the form of the food nutrition pyramid while planning meals for children.  There are five basic and distinctive food groups.  In the nutrition pyramid, each food group is color coded.

For example, grains are depicted in orange color, red is the color of fruits, purple means proteins, yellow is fat and also oil, diary and other calcium rich food is shown in blue color, and green, unsurprisingly, is the color of vegetables.

This is an attractive way of depicting food and aids in planning the menu.

Each food depicted in the food pyramid has its own unique nutrient mix.  To ensure that your child gets the maximum food value comprising all the nutrients, you need to cook different kinds of food.  We all know that health and proper mental development come from regular exercise and a healthy, balanced diet.

Since the nutritional value of each food is also dependent on the cooking process, this should be monitored, too.  A glass of milk is an excellent way to give the child a rich dosage of calcium, but if we cook a milk pudding, the same milk is laden with fat and sugar, which is okay once in a while.  Overdoing this can cause sluggishness and weight gain.

Complex carbohydrates are provided by grains and are very essential for the child, as they provide energy and build muscles.  Ensure that the child has breads, cereal, rice etc.  The child should have vitamins and minerals through fresh vegetables and fruit.  Fiber will regulate bowel function.  It is always advisable to steam, boil or stir fry vegetables so that the vitamins and minerals are not destroyed by over cooking.

Fruits should be eaten raw.  They are filling, and an excellent source of vitamins A and C.  They provide excellent benefits to the child’s health.

Dairy products provide a rich source of calcium that is essential for giving the child sturdy bones and teeth.  Moreover, these are vital for giving the child vitamins A and D, and protein, in addition to calcium as mentioned earlier.

Vitamin D improves bone health, and vitamin A is excellent for the skin, hair and eyes.  Fats and oils should be kept to the minimum.  Do not omit them as they are important for the overall fitness of the child

Following the guidelines provided by the nutrition pyramid is an excellent way of ensuring the healthy development of your child.


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