RAPID CITY, SD (KOTA) – Each week we visit a medical professional in our area to learn how to stay healthy. This week, Dr. Cara Hamilton of Black Hills Pediatrics talks about healthy eating for kids.
“As adults, we know that nutrition is very important for our overall health and even our mental well-being. But we are not growing anymore, our children are. And it is very important that they eat well for their growth as well,” said Hamilton.
Hamilton said most Americans have no problem getting enough carbohydrates in their diet and that it is important to use meal planning to ensure the right amount of carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables and fruits are included in the diet.
“Colorful plates are really good. We have bright colors, like fruits and vegetables, and a mix of other colors on the plate. Some kids can be hard to get to eat protein. But there are lots of other ways to get protein. Of course there’s protein in meat, there’s protein in nuts and nut butters and that can be a good way to get protein into kids,” Hamilton said.
You should make sure you’re getting enough different types of fruit and that your children aren’t eating super-sweet fruits. If your child has special medical dietary needs, Hamilton recommends speaking with your child’s pediatrician or a registered dietitian to make sure your child is getting everything they need to grow.
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