As a mum, it is vital to understand the changes in your child's nutritional needs. It is to further help your child get the nutrients he need in growing.
Energy and nutrient content should be balanced in the child nutrition-- a bit of a challenge for mums considering toddlers to have small tummy. So, it is important that you serve foods that are packed with needed nutrients and limit sweets and empty calories.
One of the main sources of nutrients for babies’ milk. Milk is the staple food for children under 2 years old and is an important part in a toddlers' diet. Milk is a good source of calcium and Vitamin D which is needed for bone development. However, as you slowly give new taste to your child, make sure that he still get to drink milk. Dumex in Singapore is a formulated growing up milk intended for each development stage.
Stage 1 (0-3 months). It is about stimulating the baby's senses. Baby's brain and body is learning to live. Your baby may start smiling, raise her head, track objects through his eyes, and grip objects in her hand.
Milk is the main source of energy and nutrients for your baby during this stage. Your baby will need frequent feeds every two to three hours in a day. So if you are breastfeeding, make sure that you always eat healthy food, take in a lot of water and natural juices and avoid contact with smoking people or taking in alcohol.
Nutrients needed by your baby during this stage are calories, protein, fat, vitamins and minerals. However, your baby at this stage won't be able to get these nutrients from other food source but milk. So, if you are not breastfeeding or having formula as a supplement, take a look in the nutritional information in the can of formula you'll get in the market. Check on the milk formulas available in Singapore.
Stage 2 (4-6 months). Your baby starts rolling over, babble, laugh, reach out for objects, and can start sitting up with support. During this stage, you may have your child take in cereals (1/4 - 1/2 cup) and fruits (1/4 - 1/2 cup pureed).
Stage 3 (7-9 months). During this development stage, your baby may start crawling, sit without support, respond to familiar words like his name, and may learn to stand. You may start giving your baby 1-2 1/2 cup serving of mashed potato, rice, bread, and crackers during this stage.
Nutrients needed to support stage 2 and 3 growth and development are:
Vitamin A for healthy eyes and skin. Vitamin B for releasing energy from food and helping muscles work. Vitamin C in fighting infections. Vitamin K in assisting blood clot. Calcium for bone and teeth building. Potassium for great heart and muscle function. Iron for carrying oxygen in the blood. Folate for protein absorption. Zinc for wound healing and immune system function. These nutrients can be get from vegetables, fruits, dairy, and eggs.
Everything that you let your child take affects his growth and development. Be careful on what you let him eat and guide him through his development well.
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