Tips on How to Have a Happy and Healthy Child

By Expert Author : Lynn Fung

Every parent wants the best for their child but they are either totally oblivious to how bad E Numbers are or they are hard working parents who don't have time to cook fresh home meals which therefore leads them to buying lots and lots of ready made children meals.

I am a parent of one and I will put my hands up, at one point even I didn't realise how bad certain foods can be for my child. When I first came across E Numbers I felt no less then disgusted with the amount of foods that are out there in our supermarkets which are directed at your children that has many E numbers in them. One of the worst E numbers that they put into a lot of foods is called aspartame. There are ninety two different side effects from consuming aspartame which include

* Memory loss 

* Change in vision 

* Epileptic seizures 

* Headaches, migraines,dizziness,confusion 

* Severe drowsiness and sleepiness 

* Severe slurring of speech 

* Severe hyperactivity and restless legs

This is what they are putting in our food. Anytime you see a product with a 'sugar free' sign on it, that product more then likely will have aspartame in it. Where parents go wrong is they look at a product and think 'sugar free' this will be much better for my child, but it isn't.

Every time I purchase food for my child what I personally do is read the ingredients, although some companies are being really sneaky and instead of writing the actual E Number they write the name, so you won't always know if it is an E Number or not. I have a blackberry and if I'm uncertain about an ingredient I always type it up on Google, this may sound a bit extreme but what is more important, spending two minutes on searching for the product or giving your children something so toxic?

Another issue parents are now becoming aware of are the types of food your child's nursery is feeding them.

I have witnessed myself from working with certain nursery's previously how they print out a weekly time table of what your child will be eating that week and nine times out of ten they don't eat what is on the timetable.

How would you feel if your child was given tinned ravioli with a piece of bread or crumpets with just butter for tea at about 4pm? These meals are not balanced or most importantly fresh. I personally wouldn't even let my child touch tinned foods so why you I let him eat it at nursery?

If you can bring your child a packed lunch then that will be the only way you can know that your child is eating the best you can give them.

Some tips for keeping your child healthy are:

* Go Organic with fruit and veg (and with meat if you can afford to) 

* Go Organic with milk 

* Give your child water- fluoride free (and toothpaste fluoride free) 

* Try your hardest to give your child freshly prepared food 

* Avoid all products that contain E Numbers 

* If your child doesn't like eating fruit, buy a smoothie maker and watch your child ask for more! 

* Remember if you don't have junk in the house - then they can't eat it!

I hope you all will take the steps needed to bring up a happy healthy child.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lynn_Fung

Nutrition for Child Growth

By : Expert Author Eko Kurniawan

Good nutrition will support the growth of children. Nutrition Meet the needs of our children every day, so as not susceptible to the disease in the future growth and development.

Because good nutrition will reduce the risk of children developing the disease. Even if there are germs or viral infection, with good endurance, the child will not easily hurt, so it does not interfere with the growth process.

Meet the nutritional needs of children with a balanced diet that contains carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals that are appropriate for their needs. Indeed there are times when a child is difficult to eat, but we do not give up so easily. Maneuvering by always providing healthy snacks in the house that contains the elements of balanced nutrition and food additives that can cover the lack of intake of certain nutrients.

Anything that takes our children to grow flowers? Here are some of the essential nutrients you need to know;

Protein
Protein needs of children is very large. Protein is a source of essential amino acids necessary for the builder substances for growth and the formation of serum proteins, hemoglobin, enzymes and antibodies as well as for regeneration of damaged cells and as an energy source.

Multivitamins and minerals
Additional foods containing multivitamins and minerals needed by the child to meet the nutritional needs are not satisfied by the daily diet. Especially for children who have difficulty eating and children with limited food choices.

Vitamin A
It's important to support the growth of the child and maintain eye health and increase body resistance to infection.

Vitamin B complex
Plays an important role in the metabolism of the body and maintain organ function, especially the nervous system. Can help increase your appetite for children who have difficulty eating.

Vitamin C
Plays an important role in helping to improve the child's immune to infection, and accelerate growth.

Vitamin D
Very important in helping the absorption of calcium and phosphorus and maintain healthy bones and teeth.

Vitamin E
Very well known as an antioxidant that keeps the body's cells from damage. Plays an important role in the process of metabolism, maintain healthy skin and muscle.

Mineral
Nutrients needed to support the development of the child. Often the need for these nutrients can not be met from the daily diet. Important minerals include:

Calcium Magnesium
Instrumental in the growth of bones and teeth, blood clotting process and development of nerve cells and brain.

Iron
Instrumental in the formation hemoglogin (RBCs) that transports oxygen throughout the body cells.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Eko_Kurniawan

Hobbies Are Healthy For Children

By Expert Author : Judie Brown

Instead of spending large segments of free time watching television or spending too much time in front of the computer, consider encouraging your child to take up a hobby. It is a proven fact that hobbies are beneficial in a number of ways. Children who have a hobby to occupy their minds are more likely to discover who they are and thus build a positive self image.

Directing a child to start a hobby is easy. Just observe an area of interest and encourage them to pursue it. Maybe it is rock collecting; that will help the child learn about geology and the formation of the earth's crust. Or it could be that they enjoy writing stories and that could be instrumental for learning proper sentence structure and grammar. Any hobby that can instill in your child a desire to explore his or her world around them is a great way to help them grow healthy and productive.

When helping your child choose a hobby, one thing you need to do is provide an area for them to work on it. This will require a space that can be left alone while your child works through their hobby to conclusion. If it is more in the realm of science, it could get a little messy, so you need to be sure the space will handle that possibility.

When your child is performing their hobby, give encouragement as well as guidance. By supporting their hobby, you also become more intimately involved in their life; an idea that is sure to reap benefits for both of you as they grow up. Your input as their parent is vital in helping them work through possible failures while experimenting with their hobby. You can be there to help them understand that failure is not an indication of being a failure, but an opportunity to learn and then build on that failure with success.

Within the hobby your child decides to pursue, be sure to set reasonable goals by proper planning with a strong sense of organization. If they should become frustrated because they are not making the progress they would like, explain to them that not everything comes easy; some things will take more time than others. This will teach them patience. A worthwhile hobby can be a rewarding part of life, encouraging us to explore the many interesting things life holds. It can even result in deciding what career to follow with all the rewards the right career can bring.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judie_Brown

 

Calcium Foods For Child Nutrition

By : Expert Author James Rouse

Statistically children and adolescents do not get the recommended amount of calcium foods in their daily diet. The consequences could be poor bone mass and risks of fractures or osteoporosis. Learning about high calcium foods such as; milk, cheese, and yogurt will help to ensure that your children are getting enough calcium in their daily diet. Children should eat 3 servings of dairy products per day and adolescents should eat 4 servings of dairy products per day or the equivalent in calcium foods.

How much calcium that children need varies by age. In general children aged 1-3 need 500 mg, children aged 4-8 need 800mg, and children aged 9-18 need 1300 mg. When reading food labels for the percent Daily Value be aware that these percentages are based on an adult requirement of 1000 mg per day. Doing the calculations is fairly easy. If the percent daily value was 40% that would be the equivalent to 400 mg of calcium. Look for foods that have a high percent daily value of at least 20%. You will find that the percentages vary among different foods and even brands of foods. A few examples of calcium rich foods are:

Milk: low fat, non fat, or whole
Yogurt: plain or fruit
Eggnog
Milk shakes
Cheeses: American, ricotta, cheddar, and mozzarella

Cheeses are good examples of calcium foods where the percent daily values vary. Be sure to check the food label for cheeses with high calcium content and foods that are made with calcium rich foods as ingredients. For example: nachos, pudding, and macaroni and cheese.

Some children have allergies to milk which makes finding calcium foods more challenging. The following non dairy foods are good sources of calcium for children who have milk allergies.

Almonds
Baked beans
Broccoli
Brussel sprouts
Collard greens
Okra
Peas
Rhubarb
Salmon
Sardines
Sesame seeds
Spinach
Tofu
Turnip greens
White beans

In the event that you have a fussy child that doesn't like drinking milk there are other choices. Many foods are now fortified with calcium. Read the labels looking for the words calcium fortified. A few good choices are:

Calcium fortified orange juice
Calcium fortified soy milk
Calcium fortified cereals with 100% daily value of calcium per serving: GM Whole Grain Total, Total Raisin Bran, and Total Honey Clusters
Instant Oatmeal
Calcium fortified English muffins and bread
Calcium fortified Instant Breakfast Drinks

There are numerous choices in calcium foods available even for the fussy eater. Try mixing it up a bit by making grilled cheese with calcium fortified bread. Or breakfast cereal with calcium fortified soy milk. Aside from getting enough calcium in your child's diet exercise is also needed for healthy bone development.

James Rouse is a personal weight loss coach and author of the popular http://www.helpcurechildobesity.com - a website created out of his passion.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Rouse


 

Eating Healthy For Kids

By Expert Author : Chan Jones

With a little effort you can actually trick you kids into eating more healthy snacks and meals. The trick is to disguise them and make them believe that healthy foods are actually delicious treats.

1. Something nutritious covered in dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is known for it's antioxidant benefits and it does not have all the sugar that milk chocolate has. For example you can give them dark chocolate covered bananas or strawberries. You can even let them help you make them.

2. Substitute turkey for beef. In any meal that calls for ground beef, use turkey. As long as it's seasoned well they will have no clue. If you are really bold use veggie protein or tofu.

3. For snacks make sure you alternate between healthy and fatty foods. For example: During the week give your kids nutritious snacks such as apples and peanut butter, frozen bananas, and yogurt; then when the weekend comes you can let them splurge. This will help to teach them moderation.

4.If your children love juice more then water then give them both. When you open a new bottle of juice pour half into a pitcher and fill the pitcher with water. This will water down the juice so your kids won't be getting as much sugar as well as helping you to stretch your budget.

5. If your children balk at the site of a healthy well balanced meal, just give them smaller portions of the foods they don't like. If they hate peas but love corn, give them more corn and less or no peas; don't try to force them to eat what they don't like (would you like that?). Just give them some choices so they feel they have a bit of say so about what they eat.

6. If you generally like to bake sweets then give you child a set amount that they can eat per day or week. that way they can learn to ration.

7. Always, Always, Always lead by example. How can your children be motivated to have healthy eating habits when they see no example of it. Monkey see, monkey do.

With a little bit a trickery you can get your children to eat more healthy snacks and meals. Eating healthy diets for kids can help them to remain fit as children AND all the way to adult hood. Its very easy if you use your imagination.

It can sometimes be hard to get your little ones to eat the nutritious food that they need to grow up strong; but don't worry there are tons of little tricks and secrets to get them to eat healthy.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chan_Jones


 

Child Obesity - How to Help Your Child Live a Healthy Life

By Expert Author : Liza Dupont

Your child's health is extremely important to you. You want to make sure that they are going to live happy and healthy lives. If your child is obese, then you are concerned except you aren't taking the appropriate measures to ensure that they are going to be healthy for a long time. You need to help your child lose the weight because they can't do it on their own.

A lot of children become obese because their parents feed them in the wrong way. Parents bring home all sorts of sweets and treats and their children take advantage of it. Although a few treats in moderation are okay, some parents lose control and allow their children the freedom to eat whatever. Then before they know it, their 5-year-old child is now 50 pounds overweight. A lot of parents assume that their children will just grow out of this stage but that is not the case. They need to lose the weight with diet and exercise or else their lives are going to be shortened tremendously.

You need to stop bringing home the treats and sweets or else it is just going to keep your child unhealthy. You need to get the whole family to make a change so you create a support system around your child. It's easier for one person to lose weight when they have a great support system around them. If you make the change yourself, then it will be easier for your child to do so as well.

Although you know that you should make a change in your diet as well, you aren't ready to yet. You just want your child to make the change because that is what is most important to you. The health of your child matters much more.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Liza_Dupont

Are Parent Responsible For Child Obesity

By Expert Author: Matt Garrett

In the world today, obesity is on the rise. It is estimated that three quarters of the population are overweight to some degree or obese.

Among these startling numbers, half are children. With all of the fast food restaurants and pizza shops that have been opened within the past decade, it is no wonder that weight problems are on the rise.

When you stop and think about it, who is really to blame for childhood obesity? Many people are quick to blame the parents, and in some instance that is true.

When children are small, parents control every aspect of their life including their diet. They can provide healthy nutritional meals. As the child gets older, it gets difficult to control their diet whether it is because of school or going out with friends.

Ultimately, the responsibility of eating a healthy diet depends on the age of the child. Small children are easy to feed so to speak, however, as they get older and start to go out with their friends, you lose that control to a certain degree. You can instill in them the need for proper nutrition, however when it comes down to it, peer pressure will win out almost every time.

Although schools are supposed to provide healthy nutritional lunches, and many of them do, they also offer choices such as cheeseburgers, hot dogs, and fried chicken and fish. Snack machines filled with chips cakes, and candy also line the walls of the cafeteria's, as well as soda machines. Many children forego the healthy lunch that the school provides and spend their money in these machines.

When one is asked, who is to blame for childhood obesity, the obvious answer is society. Parents cannot watch their child twenty-four hours a day. It is impossible. The only thing that parents can do is to teach their children what a healthy diet consists of and hope that they will follow it.

Eliminating junk food from school cafeterias and changing the menus is a good start, however it cannot end there. Restrictions and laws need to be initiated and enforced. The fast food industry is a multi-billion dollar industry and will not conform easily.

Of course, fast food restaurants are not totally to blame for the rise in obesity in children, if you walk down the frozen food Isle of any supermarket, you will find hundreds of heat and eat meals that are loaded with calories, carbs, sodium, and fat. The convenience of these ready to eat meals has replaced the nutritional value of a homemade meal.

It ultimately falls upon the parents to provide healthy nutritional meals for their families when they sit down to evening dinner. What your children do outside of your home cannot be controlled. You can only teach them the consequences of what can happen if they do not eat a healthy diet.

Author: Matt Garrett

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matt_Garrett

The Necessary Components of Optimal Health for Children

By Expert Author Rich Carroll

As parents we know that we have to do everything to protect our children from harm. For many parents this unfortunately does not go farther than the obvious dangers that the news media tell us are out their preying on our kids. Easily one of the most damaging threats to all of us today are the diet and exercise choices every one of us makes every day. We perhaps don't think it that important that our kids stray from healthy lifestyle choices, especially if it's done only occasionally.

When our children have a poor diet and spend the better part of a week in front of the television or computer, we won't usually get immediate feedback. In fact, the young body is better capable to cope with this, so we assume that nothing bad is going on internally. But those toxins that we feed our systems at a young age will eventually break down the efficiency of certain organs like the liver. Plus optimum health is a matter of habits, and those habits carry over to when the body is no longer able to handle a less-than-healthy lifestyle.

So what are some of the things we as parents can do to help are children get off on the right track health wise?

1. Don't joke about your child's weight. Obesity is not a joking matter, and by poking fun at a child's weight problems to get him to change is ways has been proven as not the way to go. If you are frustrated with your child's weight issues, think about your child. They are probably much more frustrated than you, as they are living with it 24/7. Even if they aren't showing much concern, it is probably just a mask for what they are really thinking. Encourage them with providing healthy food choices.

2. Lead by example. By showing that you consider health as an important part of yours and your spouse's life, it will have a far bigger impression on your child than just by telling them. If you are going out for a jog, encourage your child to join you, but don't make it a jog to hell. Give them what they can handle, and increase the load over time. If you're cooking a healthy meal, invite your child to help out. Getting involved could get them more appreciative not just in the eating part of food, but what goes into preparing healthy meals.

3. Send your child to a nutritionist. Your child hears you giving instructions all the time and as a result will start to filter what is being absorbed. A good nutritionist will do testing to determine where their bodies are nutritionally, then explain the importance of what they are eating as it pertains to their body functioning. There is no way possible to have complete control over your child's lifestyle; it is imperative that your child completely buys in to a healthy lifestyle. A good nutritionist will be one more contributing factor to convincing them of the importance of a lifestyle for optimum health.

Cultured vegetables should be an important aspect of what should be part of our diet. We know they are truly healthy, and we know that if they are made from organic food the health benefits will be greater.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rich_Carroll

 

Dental Health for Children Starts From the First Tooth

By Expert Author Jeff Molenda
Dental health for children is just as important as it is for adults. Since a child's original teeth are destined to fall out, it can seem unimportant to take proper care of them. Do not be fooled, because developing healthy teeth when fully grown starts with maintaining dental health as a youth.

A Child's Primary Teeth: Temporary But Important

Six months after a baby is born, the primary teeth start to appear, and by age two there should be 20 of them. During this time the jaw should adjust in order to make space below the primary teeth. This change allows the permanent teeth to be formed. Although the primary teeth are not going to be needed forever, it is important to maintain dental health so the next series of teeth will be strong and aesthetically pleasing.

Plaque Is the Enemy

Plaque is a well-known threat to teeth, but many are not aware of the real danger it poses. It is a nearly colorless film that sticks to the surface of teeth, and cannot be removed by simply rinsing with water. A common indication of plaque is gingivitis, which can be identified by inflammation of the gums, and the appearance of blood when brushing. A particularly alarming effect of excessive plaque is dental decay, which involves the protective enamel on the teeth being destroyed. Failing to keep your child's teeth free of plaque can lead to serious dental related problems in the future, even if they have not developed their permanent teeth yet.

Brushing Your Child's Teeth 101

Many new parents ask when they should start brushing a baby's teeth. Teeth can be brushed as soon as they begin to appear, as long as the products used are designed for the right age. A very soft brush is needed, as enamel can be removed by harsh scrubbing. Plain water should be substituted for tooth paste, unless a specially formulated brand of tooth paste for babies can be found. Your child might not like having their teeth brushed at first, but should grow to tolerate or even enjoy it in time. Continue their dental health care routine either way, because it is the best way to help ensure that they have attractive and healthy teeth for the rest of their life.

After age 2 and until age 7, you can use a very small amount of fluoride toothpaste on your child's toothbrush. They will probably need help from a parent at first, but should learn to manage their own brushing with age. Supervise their brushing to ensure that it is properly done, do not allow them to eat any tooth paste and make sure they brush twice each day. Brushing before bed is important and the other brushing can take place at any other time, such as in the morning or even after lunch. It should take around three minutes for your child to thoroughly brush their teeth.

Dental Health for Children - Beyond Brushing

While brushing regularly is a great way to prevent plaque buildup, misalignment and tooth decay, there are further preventative measures that can be adopted.

- Watch what they drink: Sugar is a commonly known cause of bad dental health, but there are other culprits, like fruit juice. Drinks like and apple or orange juice contain high levels of sugar but are also acidic, which means they can eat away at enamel, and they are bad news for dental health.

- Sucking habits: Sucking on a pacifier or even a thumb can alter the shape of the jaw and cause teeth to become misaligned. Ask to have your child's teeth inspected by a doctor or dentist to ensure that there are no problems. If sucking is identified as the cause of an issue, their bad habit needs to be stopped.

- Only put your child to bed with a bottle of water. Anything else might cause tooth plaque to form. Different drinks can be given before bed, but teeth should be brushed after the drink is finished.

- Try to give your child healthy snacks, such as appropriately prepared fruits or vegetables. Junk-food, such as candy and cookies, are not good for their teeth or their body.

- Soda is terrible for a child's dental health and should be avoided completely, if possible.

It takes a little care and vigilance to maintain proper dental care for children, but it is worth it in the end.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeff_Molenda


 

Dental Health for Children - When Should It Begin?

By Jeff Molenda

Expert Author Jeff Molenda
Some people believe that dental health for children begins when they have a mouth full of teeth. Others actually believe that it can wait until the child begins preschool or school.

Many of the habits that we practice as adults stem from our childhood, and dental hygiene is no different. Poor dental hygiene in adults has been linked to a host of health problems, including heart disease. Fostering good dental health for children in the very early years of development will help to ensure that your child will enjoy many years of healthy teeth, but will also enjoy additional health benefits as well.

When Should Dental Care Begin in Children?

Believe it or not, oral hygiene should begin before the first tooth even appears. Dental specialists now recommend that babies' mouths be gently wiped along the gums with a soft, damp, washcloth after each feeding. This makes a surprising difference in the amount of bacteria in the mouth and will help to encourage healthy gums which will provide a great foundation for healthy teeth later.

From the time the first tooth appears, and for the rest of the child's life, regular teeth cleaning should be a normal daily routine. Special toothbrushes for infants and toddlers are available anywhere regular toothbrushes are sold, and should be used routinely after eating and before bedtime.

Should I Give My Child Fluoride Tablets?

This is a very personal issue and should only be considered after discussing with your child's dentist. Some cities and other municipalities include fluoride in their drinking water supply, but many do not. There have been health concerns cited by some health professionals about the possible side effects of adding fluoride to a child' diet.

Fluoride has been shown to be extremely effective in fighting cavities, and should definitely be an ingredient that is included in the toothpaste of choice. Additionally, dental hygienists regularly apply intensive fluoride treatments during regular cleaning appointments. If there is a family history of certain dental problems, a dentist may recommend adding fluoride tablets. It is just very important for parents to be aware, informed, and advised.

Are There Factors That Make My Child More Susceptible to Cavities?

There are a number of possible contributing causes of increased cavities in children. Some of these risks include:

*Premature birth with very low birth weight

*Other healthcare problems, such as digestive problems

*White spots or brown discolorations on teeth

*Infrequent or no visits to the dentist

Are There any Foods That Make My Child More At Risk for Cavities?

In a word - yes. The following foods should be avoided or limited:

*Sugary foods, such as candy, cakes, pies, pastries, etc.

*Sticky foods, such as caramels and taffy

*Sodas and other sugary drinks

Summing It Up

Just as you would not postpone your child's first medical check-up, you should be just as diligent with your child's dental health. Neglecting the dental health of children can lead to problems as the child grows into adulthood.

Additional steps to protect the dental health of children include:

*Never put a baby to bed with a bottle in his/her mouth

*Never put anything in a baby bottle except formula, water, or juice

*Keep babies' mouths clean

Healthy mouths can be a great first step towards having healthy babies!

If you need to see a dentist in Thailand, visit Dental Thailand Experience.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeff_Molenda

How to Stay Healthy For Kids

For parents, it is vital that a great deal of importance be placed on keeping kids healthy. Knowing how to stay healthy for kids is as simple as knowing how to prevent the most common health problems children encounter. This includes responsible parenting, basic cleanliness and healthy eating habits.

Responsible parenting includes not smoking around your children. Whether in the car or at home, smoking around children puts them a great risk for upper respiratory tract infections. Another tip for parents is taking children to the doctor for regular check ups even when they are not sick. It is important to take a child to the doctor at least once every year to help establish their medical record and ensure their immunizations are up to date. One further example is keeping children home from school when they have diarrhea or a fever, and making sure they get plenty of rest.

Basic cleanliness helps to prevent a sizable portion of the bothersome problems or illnesses many children come across. Regular bathing, along with special attention to washing hair will help guarantee the child does not have a case of head lice. Also, teaching kids to use hand sanitizer at a young age will help develop healthy habits for when its time to enter school. Remember, children will not have built up immunities to many of the viruses they will be exposed to.

Healthy eating habits are developed by children at a young age. Serving high nutrition meals and setting a good example will help to prevent problems like child diabetes and obesity. When children enter school, packing a healthy lunch with the appropriate servings from each food group will keep kids eating the right kinds of food.

In conclusion, knowing how to stay healthy for kids is about prevention. Kids are going to get sick, but keeping the number of instances low can be helped by responsible parenting, cleanliness and encouraging healthy eating habits.

Find out more about how to stay healthy with these delicious healthy recipes

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lewis_Stonham


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