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Child Care Nutrition

Child Care Nutrition Specialist in Tampa, FL

Julia Barriga, MD, PA, and her team of pediatric specialists provide numerous healthcare services to families in Tampa, FL. One of the most important ways to keep your children in good health is through nutrition. Here is everything you may want to know about the importance of childcare nutrition and how our childcare nutrition specialists in Tampa, FL can help you! We are conveniently located at 5001 East Busch Blvd Tampa, FL 33617. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online.

Child Care Nutrition Specialist Near Me in Tampa FL
Child Care Nutrition Specialist Near Me in Tampa FL

Table of Contents:

Why is nutrition important in childcare?
What are the nutritional requirements for early childhood?
What are the nutritional needs of a child?
How can we improve nutrition for children?

Our mission is to ensure your children stay healthy and happy through infancy all the way to late adolescence. Some of the empathetic, patient-focused healthcare services offered at our clinic include comprehensive child wellness checks, newborn care, immunizations, management of chronic conditions, developmental screenings, health education, and more.

Why is nutrition important in childcare?


Nutrition is an incredibly important factor in the proper growth and development of your children. A well-balanced, nutrient-dense diet allows your children to stay in optimal health, protects against malnourishment, and keeps your children energized and strong. A few of the most beneficial nutrients for your children include the following list below.
 
Calcium: promotes strong bones
Iron: creates healthy blood
Carbohydrates: provides energy
Protein: builds muscles
Healthy fats: help in vitamin absorption
Folate: proper growth and development of cells
Vitamin A: improves eye and skin health
Fiber: important for digestive and cardiovascular health
Vitamin C: strengthens immunity, aids in healing processes

What are the nutritional requirements for early childhood?


Early childhood nutritional requirements vary depending on gender and age. Every child needs a combination of dairy, protein, fruits, vegetables, and grains added to their daily diet. Of course, adjustments can be made depending on allergies and food sensitivities. During early childhood, nutrition requirements for girls include 1,000 – 1,400 calories, 2-4 ounces of protein, 3-5 ounces of grains, 1-1.5 cups of fruits, 1-1.5 cups of vegetables, and 2-2.5 cups of dairy. For boys, nutrition requirements include 1,000 – 1,600 calories, 2-5 ounces of protein, 3-5 ounces of grains, 1-1.5 cups of fruits, 1-2 cups of vegetables, and 2-2.5 cups of dairy. With age, these numbers will increase slightly, taking into consideration growth, size, age, and activity levels.

What are the nutritional needs of a child?


Once children hit the age of around 5, their nutrient intake will gradually increase. From the ages of 5 to 8 girls will need about 1,200-1,800 calories, 3-5 ounces of protein, 4-6 ounces of grains, 1-1.5 cups of fruits, 1.5-2.5 cups of vegetables, and 2.5 cups of dairy. For boys in this age range, nutrition requirements include 1,200 – 2,000 calories, 3-5.5 ounces of protein, 4-6 ounces of grains, 1-2 cups of fruits, 1.5-2.5 cups of vegetables, and 2.5 cups of dairy. Your family’s pediatrician can give you nutritional advice and will help ensure you’re staying up to date on nutrition requirements. This is especially important in infancy, early childhood, and childhood.

How can we improve nutrition for children?


The best way to improve nutrition for your child is to include the five most important types of food for healthy growth and development.
 
• 1 Protein
Add protein such as eggs, lean meat, poultry, beans, and seafood to your child’s diet. This can help with the healthy development of muscles, blood, hair, nails, skin, and organs.
 
2 Vegetables
Vegetables are an amazing source of fiber, vitamins, water, and antioxidants that will help your child maintain good energy and digestive health. They can also help protect your child from developing chronic conditions and diseases.
 
3 Fruits
Fruits including berries, bananas, oranges, apples, and pineapples are great for delivering vitamins and antioxidants to the body. This can protect your child’s healthy cells, fight off infections, and boost immunity.
 
4 Dairy
Dairy is needed for your child to maintain proper bone strength and healthy teeth. Dairy products such as yogurt, milk, and cheese contain three vital nutrients: vitamin D, calcium, and protein.
 
5 Grains
Healthy whole grains are an important source of energy for children. Kids are very active and need healthy grains to keep them going. They also contain nutrients such as vitamin B, iron, magnesium, and more.
 
For further information about child nutrition, please consider booking an appointment with one of our nutrition specialists. Julia Barriga MD PA and her team of specialists would love to help you with all your child’s nutritional needs. We are conveniently located at 5001 East Busch Blvd Tampa, FL 33617. For more information, please contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Tampa FL, Terrace FL, Thonotosassa FL, Lutz FL, Greater Carrollwood FL, Lake Magdalene FL, Westchase FL, and Town ‘N’ Country FL. We look forward to helping your children stay healthy, happy, and strong!