Nourishing Transformative Changes as Children Grow

Key messages:

• The vital organs of young children occupy a much higher proportion of body weight than in later life and they are developing fast – especially the brain.
• Optimal development requires a sufficient and constant supply of the essential nutrients which should not be diluted by ‘empty’ calories coming from excess amounts of fats and sugars.
• Parents should be taught the importance of a nutrient dense diet. This is best achieved with a diverse range of foods ideally containing daily sources of animal-sourced ingredients, fruits and vegetables.