(opens a modal)
It is possible to address some of these major concerns by ensuring that your children consume the proper nutrients. Listed below are some of these specific concerns and the associated nutrients that help address them.
Iron deficiency anemia can cause cognitive impairment in young children. In addition, too few calories over a prolonged period can cause difficulties in the ability to concentrate and stay alert.
All essential vitamins and minerals, as well as, adequate calories and protein are needed to ensure that children have the ability to grow and develop like they should. A nutritious, well-balanced diet, with appropriate amounts of calories for age and level of physical activity, and foods from all the food groups is a smart way to help kids get the nutrition they need. The diet quality of many children would be improved by increasing the consumption of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy products, and limiting the consumption of saturated fats, calorie dense but nutrient poor foods like desserts, fried foods and candy.
Nutrients that help support a healthy immune system include zinc, vitamin C, protein, vitamin A, copper, and selenium. Make sure your family members are getting their recommended intake of these nutrients.
All sources of calories (carbohydrates, fats and proteins) are used by the body to help sustain energy levels. Most calories should come from carbohydrates (good choices are carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes). Fat is the most concentrated source of calories in diet and good choices supply more monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, such as nuts, seeds and olive or canola oils. Protein sources that should be chosen more often are lean cuts of meat, skinless poultry and fish. In addition there are a number of vitamins and minerals that are essential for converting the calories in food into energy our bodies can use. These include the B vitamins (especially thiamin, riboflavin, niacin).
Pumpkin Pie Baked Oatmeal VIEW RECIPE
Gluten Free Oatmeal LEARN MORE
Vanishing Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Vanishing Oatmeal Raisin Cookies GET RECIPE
No-fuss breakfasts for on-the-go mornings
No-fuss breakfasts for on-the-go mornings MAKE OVERNIGHT OATS
Yes! Sign me up to receive emails from PepsiCo Tasty Rewards, PepsiCo and its brands so I never miss out on exciting updates, offers or sweepstakes
Are you a health professional?
If so, sign up for the Quaker Oats Center of Excellence newsletter. Subscribe