Proteins, fats and carbohydrates in the diet of children

The most important component of the diet is the proteins , whose amino acid composition completely determines the plastic value of food, as they are an essential element in the construction of tissues. The lack of protein in the children's diet leads to a delay in growth and mental development, causes skin changes, reduces the body's resistance to diseases, and also disrupts the activity of endocrine glands. The daily need for protein intake is determined by the age of the child. It is necessary to take into account the fact that the protein of animal origin is a source of essential amino acids, such as tryptophan, lysine, methionine, valine, threonine, phenylalanine, leucine, isoleucine, and histidine in the case of infants. This type of protein should be 65-70% in young children and 60% of the daily intake of protein in the school. Milk and dairy products are the best food product for the balance of essential amino acids in childhood.

In the baby food fats are given the role of energy material, which is the source of fat-soluble vitamins A, E and D. In addition, fats supply the children's body with phospholipids and essential fatty acids. It is recommended to include in the children's diet such products as cream, butter and vegetable oil as sources of fat, the lack of which causes a decrease in resistance to diseases and a slowdown in children.

Carbohydrates are for the body the basic easily digestible energy material.

Increased motor activity of children causes an increased demand for carbohydrates. The role of the main sources of carbohydrates in children's food is fruit and berries, as well as juices, milk, honey, sugar, biscuits, sweets and various jams. But we must not forget that the excessive intake of carbohydrates ultimately leads to a disruption of metabolism, obesity and a decrease in the body's resistance to various infections.

Materials used:
Shilov VN, Mits'yo VP"Healthy Nutrition"