Eating well is an important part of a healthy lifestyle that children should learn at a young age. Here are a few general guidelines for helping your child to eat a healthy diet.

• Provide three meals a day, with healthy snacks in between.
• Increase fiber in your child’s diet.
• Decrease the use of salt and salty foods.
• Encourage your child to drink water. Try to avoid drinks and juices that are high in sugar.
• Don’t put your child on a low-fat diet without talking to your child’s healthcare provider. Children under the age of 2 need fats in their diet to help with the growth of their nervous system.
• Serve balanced meals.
• Try to bake, grill, roast or broil instead of frying.
• Decrease your child’s sugar intake.
• Offer fruit or vegetables for a snack.
• Decrease your use of butter and heavy gravies.
• Serve more lean meat, chicken, fish and beans for protein.

To find more information about the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 and to determine the appropriate dietary recommendations for your child’s age, sex and physical activity level, visit MyPlate.gov and 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines. Note that the MyPlate plan is designed for people over age 1 who don't have chronic health conditions.

Be sure to discuss your child’s diet and nutrition needs with your child’s healthcare provider before making any dietary changes.

Source: The StayWell Company, LLC