Planning balanced meals for preschool children

An active preschool child’s energy needs rival those of some grown up women. So we need not track their calorie consumption. But given the velocity of growth and activity, if the child is denied of nutritious balanced meals, she/he may not achieve her/his full genetic potential for adult height. It may affect the health also.

Children suffer from Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM), xerophthalmia (vitamin A deficiency) and anaemia if protein, vitamin A and iron respectively are lacking in their meals. Universal use of iodised salt is a simple and cheap method of preventing Iodine Deficiency Disorders. The diet of a preschool child should emphasise three aspects– – Variety in textures, tastes, smells and colours, to broaden a child’s nutritional intake and eating experience, – Balance of complex carbohydrates, lean proteins and essential fats, – Moderation while indulging in sweets, ice creams, fast foods rich in fats and refined flours. Now do you remember the five food groups you learnt in Chapter III in part I?

The five food groups suggested by ICMR permit us to plan balanced meals according to our recommended dietary allowances. While planning daily diets foods must be chosen from all the food groups. In order to make planning more convenient, ICMR has suggested diets for different age groups. We could refer to Table below for the quantities of various food groups to be included in a balanced diet for preschool children.

Table : Balanced Diet for Preschool Children