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Happy Tummy Expert

8 months ago

Dear Ashar, Thank you for the question

Growth and development are natural phenomena that occur throughout the human life cycle. The rate at which an individual grows and develops and attains certain milestones differs from person to person. Physical growth and development of an individual across stages involves various factors like Genetics, Gender, Nutrition & Physical activity.

Ages 1-6 years witness gradual and continuous growth and development. During this period, it is important to take care of all nutritional needs and give children a nutritionally adequate & well-balanced diet, to ensure that growth and development is achieved optimally and prevent risks of malnutrition. 

A high calorie and high protein diet is recommended for weight gain. Some of the sources of high protein include pulses, lentils, milk, paneer, soybean, eggs, lean meat, etc.

The RDA for protein requirement is 12.5g/d and energy is 1010kcal/day for children 1-3 years of age

Here are a few dietary guidelines for children to be considered

• The diet should include a variety of foods and ensure inclusion of all food groups. As teaching the child to eat everything on his plate will help him enjoy optimal health.
• Make the plate colorful by including variety of fruits and vegetables
• Food should be slightly seasoned so that they taste better and the child takes it well.
• Child should never be forced to eat more than he/she can take.
• Food preference of the child should be taken into consideration by emphasizing on the child's likes and dislikes
• Foods like tea and coffee should be avoided as they may overstimulate the childs body system.
• Small foods that have risks of choking should be avoided.
• Ensure sufficient consumption of milk and milk products
• Include energy dense foods, keeping in mind the daily needs. Some of the energy dense   foods include Whole wheat, multigrain, millets, dairy products, colocasia leaves, banana, pulses/lentils etc.
• Try to increase the serving size and portion size gradually and systematically
• Include healthy fats from nuts and seeds. Can be used in powdered format to avoid risk of choking.
• Ask the child to avoid lying down immediately after your meal consumption
• Keep a gap of minimum 2-3 hours between bedtime and your child’s last meal
• Encourage physical activity for optimal growth
• Ensure that the child follows a good sleep regimen in terms of both quantity and quality.

We request you to kindly contact a specialized health care professional such as a paediatrician for further  management.

For more information and sustainable growth and for customised and personalised meal plan please contact a Health care professional and your child’s paediatrician

Hope we have answered your query.

Wishing you a great day ahead

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