FAMILY HEALTH||NITRITION

FAMILY HEALTH||FOOD
Hello wonderful steemians of the steem kids and parents community. Trust we are all doing great? Today I will write about the health of family members - both the kids and their parents.

Firstly what affects health?
There are many factors that are capable of affecting the health of kids and parents. However some major factors are: Nutrition, Exercise, Environment, Education and Financial security. Today, I will write on the effects of nutrition.

The development of a child's brain is largely affected by nutrition. Children without adequate nutrition are at risk of developing cognitive impairments. Good and adequate nutrition on the other hand, provides nutrients necessary for bone formation and strengthening and muscle function. Good eating habits promote healthy skin, eyes and overall body functioning.

Without proper nutrition, child development slows down leading to stunted growth, weakness and delayed puberty.

FOODS FOR DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS
INFANTS
Although some parents opt for baby formula to feed their infants, it has its own risks. Baby formula can be expensive and you have to be careful to avoid contamination of the accessories (such as bottles, spoons etc.) which can cause food borne illness.

Breast milk, however, contains the proper amount of proteins, fat and carbohydrates needed by the baby.

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CHILDREN OVER TWO YEARS
As children become more active, they heed more calories. Protein is also essential for muscle gain. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are also important.

Some parents are tempted to get their children packaged foods. These foods however are high in sodium and saturated fats which are not needed.

Tip: Avoid adding salt or sugar in children's food at this age . Later on , they will find processed foods too salty or sweet and will avoid them.

TEENAGE BOYS
Teenage boys experience rapid growth. The growth rate and timing vary. However , boys at this stage build the muscle mass they will need for the rest of their lives . Therefore, they need to eat foods rich in protein, calcium and vitamin D for their stretching skeleton. These nutrients are easily available in oily fish like sardines and salmon, egg yolks and red meat.

TEENAGE GIRLS
Teen girls are not only growing rapidly but they are starting to have menstrual periods . This, they have the highest iron requirements of all ages. Their meals should include lean red meat , iron fortified cereals, beans and leafy vegetables.

PREGNANT MOTHERS
Pregnant women should take care to avoid the 'eating-for-2' mentality. This mentality leads to unnecessary weight gain which can increase complications during childbirth. They should concentrate on quality diet not quantity diet . Increase intake of folate, iron and vitamin B12 rich foods such as beans, spinach, fish , poultry and eggs. Citrus fruits like orange are also a great option.

Overall , all family members can maintain optimum health by maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding unnecessary weight gain.
Next time I will write about the impact of exercise on health.

Thanks for reading.
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