Normal and Therapeutic Nutrition

Normal and Therapeutic Nutrition 3(2+1)

Lesson 14:Nutritional and Food Requirements for Preschool Children

Introduction

• Growth is generally slower than in the first year of life (preschool age 1-6 years) but continues gradually.
• Activity increases as child becomes more mobile.
• By age of 2 years dentition develops completely. Therefore increased range of foods can be safely eaten.
• There is an increased need for all nutrients, but the pattern of increase varies for different nutrients in relation to their role in growth of specific tissues.
• Preschool years are the best time for a child to start a healthy pattern of living and eating, focusing on regular physical activity and nutritious foods.