FAQs about Childhood Nutrition

Moms and dads want to know if they are providing proper nutrition for their children. At Prime Pediatrics in Gaithersburg, MD, your children's doctor has a wealth of information on the whys and hows of feeding your child. Dr. Jamali and Dr. Khajoee want you confident that you are doing your best for your child's health and development.

FAQs about childhood nutrition

My six-year-old fusses about new foods. How can I encourage her to try something different? Involve your child in grocery shopping and menu planning. Have her pick out something new (and nutritious) and involve her in preparing it. Small amounts are best. Also, show her you are willing to eat new choices, too.

How much juice should my child drink? Juice is healthy to an extent, but remember, it has a high sugar content. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no more than four ounces a day.

My child frequently complains he is hungry. Should I allow snacks? Much depends on your child's activity level and growth pattern. Teen boys are frequently hungry because they are building muscle. Other children may feel starved because they play so much they forget to eat. Others feel hungry but are simply dehydrated.

As such, feed your child three balanced meals according to a regular schedule. Keep him or her active so obesity doesn't develop, and push water through out the day. Nutritious snacks are fine when you know your youngster has been really burning the calories.

When should my baby start on solid foods? Six months is the benchmark or whenever the first baby tooth arrives. Iron-fortified cereals and pureed vegetables and fruits are good first choices. However, breast milk is the foundation of your baby's nutrition for the first year of life as it provides balanced nutrients and important passive immunity against disease.

What should a typical meal look like? The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says to limit salt and sugar, offer water and milk (or soy milk for those with allergies), low-fat meats and one serving each of a fruit and vegetable.

Does my child have to eat breakfast? Breakfast is a very important meal as it gives your child the energy and cognitive boost needed to start the day and to continue learning and moving until mid-day. The FDA says its perfectly OK to offer non-traditional breakfast choices such as leftover turkey or tuna casserole. Ham, eggs, and cereal aren't the only good breakfast choices.

Learn more

At Prime Pediatrics in Gaithersburg, Dr. Farnoush Jamali and Dr. Vahid Khajoee and their team can help you provide the best possible nutrition for your growing child. If you have a question or concern, feel free to call your children's doctor, or ask at your youngster's next well-child visit. Phone (301) 977-2440.