Needed nutrients
Fat.
During your child's first 2 years, he needs to get about
40% of his calories from fat sources. At six months
of age, baby gets a little more than 40% of calories
from fat. However by age 1 this percentage drops to
about 30%. Baby needs more fat than you do. It is unhealthy
for baby to eat too little fat in his diet. Often a
toddler gets what his parents eat; parents who eat low
fat foods may believe the same foods are OK to feed
baby. Parents who drink low fat of fat free (skim) milk
may give these products to their child. As a result
baby gets less than desired percentage of fat in his
diet. Don't limit your child's fat intake until after
he turns two. At that point a gradual decrease won't
be harmful. By age 5 your child should get about 30%
of his calories from fat sources. Until he is quite
a bit older, don't feed him fat-reduced foods.
Vitamin D.
Many babies don't get enough vitamin D or zinc. Some
products you think might contain this vitamin, like
cheese and yogurt, don't. Parents who do not realize
this may feed their baby these foods without offering
others that do contain vitamin D. Good sources are eggs,
fortified milk and butter.
Zinc.
This mineral is found in poultry (and pork and beef).
Some children may resist eating these foods but you
should encourage your child if you do not any religious
of lifestyle restrictions. Two to three tablespoons
of meat or eggs provide him with enough zinc. Discuss
with your pediatrician if you are vegetarian.
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