Food Pyramid For Kids

Hello Mommies,

You must have heard and read about the food pyramid as a kid and know the concept of it. It is basically a 3-dimensional representation of what food constituents should be in considerate amount and what should be limited as per the daily diet. Well, the food pyramid is not always same for every individual and tends to keep changing as per the biological needs of the person as per their age group.

These slight changes are essential to procure the essential nutrients needed by then during different age and also is based on the nature of activities performed by them.

Today, we will be talking about the Food Pyramid with special reference kids as a matter of fact that obesity has become a major concern for many moms due to the lack of physical activities in today’s kids. The introduction of junk food items in kid’s daily diet is surely one of the most common reasons for the various health issues in kids these days.

The Food Pyramid is a guide to show the basic food items which should necessarily be included in the daily diet of kids. The reason behind the shape of a pyramid is basically to show the basic food groups (e.g. milk, cheese, cereals, breads, etc.). These are the quintessential food items which are healthy and provide appropriate nutritional content. These food groups are also based on the fact that the items are affordable and accessible to most of the population. The base of the food pyramid shows the most important food group and as it elevates to a higher level up, the less essential items are placed in it. The apex of the food pyramid showed the supplemental foods which are needed in limited amounts in order to keep the health balanced.

Grains Group

Includes Breads, cereal, rice, and pasta

Carbohydrates as a source of quick energy.
Iron essential for blood.
B vitamins, which we need for energy, growth, and our brains.
Thiamin (Vitamin B1), which strengthens the nervous system.

Vegetable Group

Includes Carrots, broccoli, green beans, peas, lettuce, celery, etc.

Vitamin C is essential for healthy teeth and gums.
Vitamin A keeps the skin and hair healthy, and aids in better eyesight.
Vitamin B6 also helps in growth and brain functioning.
Fiber aids in proper bowel movement and removes toxic waste from the digestive system which boosts the metabolism.

Fruit Group

Includes Apples, oranges, bananas, pineapples, peaches, melons, grapes, etc.

This usually comprises of various vitamins, minerals and other anti-oxidants work in strengthening the proper metabolic activities of the body.

Milk Group

Includes Milk, cheeses, yogurt, etc.

Calcium, which is important for strong teeth and bones.
Vitamin D helps build strong bones

Meat Group

Includes Red meat, poultry, fish, eggs

It consists of various protein, minerals like zinc, potassium , iron and carbohydrates which are not abundantly found in the vegetarian food items.

Fats, Oils and Sweets

Includes chocolate, ice cream, cookies, deep-fried anything (like doughnuts and French fries)

Fats and natural sugars are good for us but only in measured amounts. Generally, but our body gets plenty of these things from the other foods we eat. Too much of this stuff is what leads to obesity issues and other healthy problems.

Well, this was a brief about the food pyramid that should be ideally followed for the growth and development of kids and prevent them from being over-weight or under-nutrition!