- Less than 10 percent of calories per day from saturated fats. The Nutrition Facts label can be used to check for saturated fats. Foods that are high in saturated fat include butter, whole milk, meats that are not labeled as lean, and tropical oils such as coconut and palm oil
- Less than 2,300 milligrams (mg) per day of sodium for people over the age of 14 years and less for those younger. The Nutrition Facts label is a helpful tool to check for sodium, especially in processed foods like pizza, pasta dishes, sauces, and soups
Unfortunately, more than half of American children do not get enough of vitamins D and E and about a fourth don’t get enough calcium, magnesium or vitamin A. This can cause them to get sick often because these are nutrients that are needed to keep their immune system strong. It can also affect their mental ability, stunt their growth, put them at a higher risk for developing a chronic disease and even death. This is why it’s important to visit your doctor regularly, because they will tell you if your child isn’t getting the nutrients necessary for proper growth and development.
As a parent you have to find ways to get your children to eat different things and set an example and lead a healthy lifestyle. Introduce new foods and be aware of the nutrition value of each thing that goes on their plates. You can also find ways to involve them in grocery shopping and help them pick out healthier options that they enjoy to eat.
