Introduction: This booklet has been written to provide essential information about optimal and balanced nutrition for healthy infants and children throughout their growth, from infancy to adulthood. It aims to answer fundamental questions such as the benefits of breastfeeding, the nutritional needs of adolescents, the important nutritional deficiencies in vegetarians, how to address eating disorders in infancy, and tips for preventing obesity.
Clinical Decisions and Pyramid of Food: Clinical decisions are based on a combination of considerations and tests. This booklet does not offer personalized advice and cannot serve as a comprehensive guide for all cases. For that, medical consultation is recommended.
The food pyramid is a helpful tool for selecting a variety of foods from different food groups in appropriate relative proportions. The pyramid is suitable for a healthy population and can be used to create a diverse menu for various purposes. Opting for different foods within each group ensures a good supply of essential nutrients for the body. More foods should be consumed from the lower levels of the pyramid and fewer from the upper levels to achieve balance.
Pyramid Levels:
- The base of the pyramid includes grains and grain products (bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, cakes). This group provides complex carbohydrates as a primary nutritional component.
- The second level comprises vegetables and fruits. It's recommended to consume 2/3 vegetables and 1/3 fruits. This group supplies vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.
- The third level includes protein-rich foods, divided into three subgroups:
- Iron-rich foods like meat, poultry, turkey, fish, eggs.
- Calcium-rich foods such as dairy products.
- Foods that are sources of dietary fiber and iron, such as legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas) and soy.
- The fourth level features plant-based fat-rich foods (nuts, almonds, peanuts, avocado, sesame, tahini). These foods are energy-dense and provide fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
- At the tip of the pyramid are sweet foods, which are high in calories and simple processed sugars. It's advisable to limit daily consumption to once a day at most.
Childhood Nutrition: During childhood, eating habits and food preferences are formed. It's essential to establish correct dietary habits for children, both through personal example from parents and the environment. Balanced nutrition at different ages supports optimal growth and development, along with other factors, ensuring the child's present and future health. Food consumption should be diverse, balanced, and appropriate in quantity to provide all the required nutritional components for children. Children are in constant growth, so it's crucial to provide an adequate variety of necessary nutrients.
For any questions, inquiries, or appointments, please contact the pediatric gastroenterology clinic and nutritionist at: 02-6555307/634.