Nutritional Needs of Preschool Children
Overview
Preschoolers, energetic and active, have specific nutritional requirements that differ based on their growth stage, health status, and activity levels. Establishing healthy eating habits during this period is crucial as it shapes their future food behaviors.
Recommended Dietary Allowances
According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the nutritional needs for preschool children include energy, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals specified in the following table:
| Nutrient |
Age 1-3 Years |
Age 4-6 Years |
| Energy (Kcal) |
1240 |
1690 |
| Protein (g) |
22 |
30 |
| Fat (g) |
25 |
25 |
| Calcium (mg) |
400 |
400 |
| Iron (mg) |
12 |
18 |
| Vitamin A (Retinol µg) |
400 |
400 |
| Thiamine (mg) |
0.6 |
0.9 |
| Riboflavin (mg) |
0.7 |
0.8 |
| Vitamin C (mg) |
40 |
40 |
| Folic Acid (µg) |
30 |
40 |
| Vitamin B-12 (µg) |
0.2-1 |
0.2-1 |
Guidelines for Healthy Eating
- Family Mealtime: Family meals encourage children to learn by imitating their parents' eating habits.
- Variety: Offering a range of foods can improve their willingness to try new foods.
- Regular Meals and Snacks: Scheduled meals help ensure children are hungry at mealtime.
- Portion Sizes: Serving age-appropriate portions can help children not to waste food.
- Handling and Eating: Foods should be easy to eat and handle, promoting independence in feeding.
Balanced Meal Planning
- Focus on creating three meals and two snacks daily.
- Snacks can help meet energy needs due to the high activity levels of preschoolers.
- Examples of balanced meal planning include simple breakfasts, nutritious lunches, and healthy snacks.
Establishing these behaviors at a young age can lay the groundwork for lifelong healthy eating habits.