FAQs about Children's Nutrition

It’s important that your growing child is following a healthy, balanced diet.

With staggering childhood obesity statistics, more and more parents are taking an active and vested interest in making sure their children are healthy and active. Of course, our Raleigh, NC, pediatricians Dr. Ceyhun Ozturk and Dr. Maria Guerra know that it isn’t always easy to understand what your child’s nutritional needs are. Here are some of your most popular questions about childhood nutrition answered.

Q. What should my child’s diet consist of?

A. When in doubt, turn to the Dietary Guidelines of Americans to help you determine whether your children are eating the right things and getting the proper nutrients from their diets. The amount of calories your child should be consuming each day will depend on their age and activity level. By and large your child’s diet should consist of lean protein (e.g. poultry; fish), eggs, fruits and vegetables, beans, whole grains, and dairy. Limit foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, as well as added sugar.

Q. Is snacking okay?

A. It can be, just make sure that when you child is snacking that they are eating something that will not just satiate their hunger but also provide them with vitamins and nutrients. It’s normal for young, developing children to need food about every three or four hours. Instead of letting them reach for the potato chips or cookies opt for healthier alternatives such as cheese and slices of turkey, fruit and yogurt, peanut butter, or raw vegetables and hummus.

Q. How much water should my child drink every day?

A. It’s important that your child is getting enough water each and every day, especially if they are physically active. A good rule of thumb is:

• 5-8 year olds should drink 5 glasses of water/day
• 9-12 year olds should drink 7 glasses of water/day
• Children 13 years old or older should drink 8-10 glasses of water/day

Q. Is my child overweight?

A. If you are concerned that your child is overweight or obese it’s important that you schedule a consultation with a pediatrician in Raleigh, NC, who can determine the ideal body weight for your little one. If your child is overweight we can work with you and your child to create a specialized nutritional and exercise plan that will help promote a healthier weight and lifestyle.

Little Oaks Pediatrics is dedicated to providing children and families all over the Raleigh, NC, area with comprehensive pediatric care. Whether you have questions about your child’s nutrition or you need to schedule their yearly sports physical, don’t hesitate to call your pediatrician today to schedule your child’s next visit.