Do you want your child to eat healthy balanced foods, but do not know which nutrients are necessary and in what amounts? Children and teenagers where we live are consuming too much free sugars and calories which is a contributing factor to excess weight gain and dental caries. 25% of 10–11-year-olds are obese with a further 15% being overweight with this trend continuing into teenage years. More than one third of teenagers are starting adult life with excess weight. This can increase the risk of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, bone and joint problems as well as breathing difficulties. Not to mention mental health issues too.
Only 8% of teenagers achieve the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetable guidelines. Nutrition for kids is based on the same principles as nutrition for adults. Everyone needs the same type of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, protein, fat and water. Children, however, need different amounts of specific nutrients at different stages of their development.
Why not give your child the best start in life in finding out the best dietary formula to fuel your child’s growth with a prescribed nutritional plan designed by a registered public health nutritionist. Or, if you require a sports specific plan this will be designed by a registered sports and exercise nutritionist. So, what does this involve? Within this plan you will fill in a nutritional assessment readiness (NARQ) questionnaire online which will bring to light your child’s nutritional goals as well as any potential allergens.
You will also be given a list of all the major food groups where you will choose likes and dislikes. This will help the registered nutritionist plan the diet whilst keeping it person centred. When it is person centred it is more likely to work in the long term so your child can maintain their dietary lifestyle change.
There is a 1-2 week turnaround on this in which the full balanced nutritional plan will be made and will cover seven days. The plan will be unique and individual to your child and their goals. The age ranges are 10-17 years. This plan involves an initial consultation online at the start as well one at the end to go through the plan when it is finished.