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Nutrition
Health Guide
What your child eats
is very important for his or her health.
Follow the nutrition
guidelines below.
Guidelines for a Healthy Diet—0-2 Years
Old
-
Breast milk is the best single food for infants
from birth to 6 months of age. It provides good nutrition and protects
against infection. Breast feeding should be continued for at least the
first year, if possible. If breast feeding is not possible or not desired,
iron-enriched formula (not cow's milk) should be used during the first
12 months of life. Whole cow's milk can be used to replace formula or breast
milk after 12 months of age.
-
Breast-fed babies, particularly if dark-skinned,
who do not get regular exposure to sunlight may need to receive Vitamin
D supplements.
-
Begin suitable solid foods at 4-6 months of age.
Most experts recommend iron-enriched infant rice cereal as the first food.
-
Start new foods one at a time to make it easier
to identify problem foods. For example, wait 1 week before adding each
new cereal, vegetable, or other food.
-
Use iron-rich foods, such as grains, iron-enriched
cereals, and other grains and meats.
-
Do not give honey to infants during the first
12 months of life.
-
Do not limit fat during the first 2 years of
life.
Guidelines for a Healthy Diet—2 Years and
Older
-
Provide a variety of foods, including plenty
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
-
Use salt (sodium) and sugars in moderation.
-
Encourage a diet low in fat, saturated fat, and
cholesterol.
Help your child maintain a healthy weight by
providing proper foods and encouraging regular exercise.
Dental/Oral Health
Your child needs regular dental care starting
at an early age. Talk with your dentist to schedule the first visit. Good
oral health requires good daily care. Follow these guidelines.
For Babies
-
If most of your child's nutrition comes from
breast feeding, or if you live in an area with too little fluoride in the
drinking water (less than .3 ppm for children less than 2 years old, less
than .7 ppm for children over 2 years old), your child may need fluoride
drops or tablets. Ask your health care provider or local water department
about the amount of fluoride in your water.
-
Don't use a baby bottle as a pacifier or put
your child to sleep with a baby bottle. This can cause tooth decay and
ear infections.
-
Keep your infant's teeth and gums clean by wiping
with a moist cloth after feeding.
-
When multiple teeth appear, begin gently brushing
your infant's teeth using a soft toothbrush and a very small (pea-sized)
amount of toothpaste with fluoride.
For Older Children
-
Talk with your dentist about dental sealants.
They can help prevent cavities in permanent teeth.
-
Use dental floss to help prevent gum disease.
Talk with your dentist about when to start.
-
Do not permit your child to smoke or chew tobacco.
Set a good example: don't use tobacco products yourself.
-
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, rinse it
gently and put it back into the socket or in a glass of cold milk or water.
See a dentist immediately.
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