Why Nutrition Is So Important

One simple step you can take to help your kids enjoy better health is prioritizing their nutrition. We know that can be challenging when dealing with things like picky eaters, food allergies, and other issues, but we are here to help. Dr. Michael Taymor and Dr. Lama Rimawi, the board certified pediatricians at our office in Palo Alto, CA, offer nutrition guidance to help your kids develop healthy eating habits.

Importance of Proper Nutrition for Kids  

There are several reasons why proper nutrition is important for children. A balanced and healthy diet helps kids get the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals they need to grow and develop properly. For instance, good nutrition supports brain development and helps with alertness and clear thinking. 

Maintaining a nutritious diet benefits kids in so many ways, including:

• Boosts immunity 
• Improved energy levels
• Supports brain development 
• Development of strong bones and teeth
• Helps with maintaining a healthy body weight
• Aids in proper digestive system functioning
• Helps kids think more clearly and remain alert
• Teaches children about developing healthy habits 
• Contributes to improved mood

Teaching kids about good nutrition and helping them develop healthy habits at a young age provides a foundation that can lead to healthy eating and proper nutrition for life. The knowledgeable providers at our pediatric practice in Palo Alto, CA, provide nutrition guidance to help parents implement healthy eating habits at home. Additionally, the doctors can help with recommendations for food substitutions for kids dealing with food-related allergies.

Tips for Prioritizing Nutrition

Even when you understand the importance of good nutrition, it can still be challenging to implement healthy eating habits at home. When kids are going through a picky-eater phase, it can be a relief just to see them eat something even if it is not the most healthy option. However, there are steps you can take — even with picky eaters — to promote better nutrition and healthy eating habits.

Steps for prioritizing nutrition at home include:

• Preparing balanced and nutritious meals 
• Limiting or avoiding processed foods
• Limiting or avoiding sugary snacks and beverages
• Offering healthy snack options, such as fruit instead of cookies
• Leading by example and eating healthy foods along with your child 
• Limiting or avoiding fried foods and fast foods
• Consulting a pediatrician or nutritionist

Kids benefit from proper nutrition that includes a healthy and balanced diet, which promotes proper growth and development. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Taymor or Dr. Rimawi to learn more about proper childhood nutrition by calling our pediatric office in Palo Alto, CA, at (650) 321-7722.