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Stephen Odzer M.D: A Pediatrician's Guide to Children Nutrition

One of the major issues that confuse young parents is the nutrition and dietary needs of their kids. Even though there is more than sufficient information out there, trends are always changing and new recommendations arise now and then. For any parents looking to raise healthy kids, the constant analysis of the child’s diet is inevitable. It is hard to establish what the young ones need though. 

Stephen Odzer M.D, an experienced pediatrician, reckons that following the right guide and encouraging good eating habits is all that is needed to keep the children healthy.  

What should young children eat? 

Stephen Odzer M.D, recommends natural items for infants. This includes the mother’s milk for infants under the age of 6 months. Research has recently shown that plant-based milk and other forms of food items are not good for young children. Even though more and more people are moving away from animal products, parents are advised to keep the crucial diet of infants intact. Milk made from rice, oats and other plants lacks the necessary nutrition that young children need to develop. All children under the age of 5 should thus be fed with infant formula or mother’s milk and not plant-based milk. 

Kids dietary focus should be comprehensive

Dr. Odzer also encourages parents to keep the diet of young children diverse and comprehensive. It is not advisable to focus on specific kinds of food when dealing with young children. Every possible source of nutrition should be explored as young ones need balanced diets in order to develop. 
 
Research has shown that the different nutrients obtained from a variety of plant and animal-based items are necessary for proper development. It is thus important to make the diet of young kids as diverse as possible for their proper mental and physical development. 

What children should drink

When it comes to drinks, young children should be given milk, water or small amounts of natural juice. For infants, the diet should exclusively be based on milk and formula. For young children, milk and water on a daily basis are best for their development. 
 
Older kids should, however, be given low-fat milk which is healthier at this stage. In terms of what drinks to avoid, low-calorie drinks should not be given to kids of any age. Juice should also not be given to children and one year old.  

What are the guidelines for encouraging healthy eating?

Many young children face appetite issues. Stephen Odzer M.D advises parents to be role models to their kids when it comes to healthy eating habits. Young children have a natural inclination to imitate what their parents are doing. If you focus on eating a healthy balanced diet, the children will also want to do that. 
 
Experts in pediatrics advise parents to lead by example when it comes to hygiene, eating habits and other issues that are crucial to children’s health. It is important to prepare more meals at home and disguise some of the items that kids have trouble eating within other healthy options.  
 
Resource: CLT Marketing in Charlotte, NC

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