Nutritional problems, namely malnutrition or overnutrition, will increase susceptibility to disease, especially the risk of non-communicable diseases. If this problem continues into adulthood and marriage, it will risk affecting the health of the fetus she is carrying.
Nutritional intake in children greatly influences their growth and development. Age-appropriate nutrition will help maximize their growth. The more perfect the nutrition given, the more perfect their brain and physical development.
The following are the nutritional benefits for children:
- Grow Healthy
- Perfect Brain Development
- Strong Body Resistance
- Maintaining Dental and Oral Health
By eating properly, dental and oral health is well maintained. - More Concentration
Fulfilled nutrition makes concentration more maintained - More Stable Mood
Eating 3 times a day & interspersed with healthy snacks can make your little one more stable. - More Energetic
They will be more enthusiastic in carrying out daily activities.
The following are the causes of malnutrition in children:
- Parental Ignorance About Nutrition
It is recommended to read literature about nutrition for babies and children to find out the right types and amounts of nutrients. - Low Economic Level
This can still be overcome by planting vegetables or fulfilling protein needs such as tofu and tempeh, and so on. - Poor Environmental Hygiene
A dirty environment can make children susceptible to viruses and bacteria. - Suffering from Certain Diseases
Especially in the digestive tract, food intake will be difficult for the body to digest. For example, intestinal inflammation, or worm infections.
Here’s how to deal with malnutrition in children:
- Check with a Doctor
If your child shows signs of malnutrition, take them to the doctor as soon as possible. - Implementing a Good Diet
Ensure that your little one’s diet is well maintained by giving him/her a variety of foods high in calories, minerals, protein, and vitamins. - Accompanying His Development
Make sure that you always monitor your little one’s development intensively.
The following are nutritional intake requirements based on age:
- Fetus
When pregnant, make sure to diligently consume foods rich in omega 3, DHA, folate, carbohydrates, protein, choline, calcium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. - Babies
aged 0-12 months, provide food with lots of AA, DHA, omega 3, omega 6, choline, fat, vitamins and minerals. - Toddlers
aged 1 – 3 years, mothers can give them beef, chicken, eggs, shellfish, liver, tempeh, tofu, and bread as their main source of nutrition. - Toddlers
Make sure they get enough energy from food sources rich in carbohydrates and fats. - School-Age Children
When they reach the age of five years and above, mothers must not only provide nutritious food, they must also ensure that they like the food.