101393 M1564
Unit11
Sreekanthi Nandan
2 Know the benefits of healthy eating for children and young people
2.1 Describe examples of healthy eating for children and young people
Eating a healthy diet can help prevent a variety of diseases in children. Unhealthy eating habits have been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, some forms of cancer and osteoporosis. According to Teen Health, these may not show up in childhood, but a poor diet increases the risk as a child gets older. High fat, calorie and sodium intake is also upping the cases of some of these conditions in young children. A diet high in the recommended food groups ensures adequate nutrient intake, which helps a child prevent and fight off these diseases.
A diet high in healthy foods provides a child the energy he needs to power through his play. This is especially important for kids who participate in sports as they need the extra fuel to perform. Whole grains are an important source of carbohydrates, the nutrient that provides energy to a child’s body. Foods like cereal, pasta and breads should be included in a healthy diet for this purpose. Combined with protein from meat, eggs and nuts for muscle health a child is able to focus at school and play afterward. On the other hand, too much fat and calorie intake makes a child sluggish and too tired to engage in physical exertion.