Fuel Your Child’s Success and Health with Proper Nutrition

The start of a new year brings hope for better health outcomes, especially for our kids. But even with the strides made in healthcare, malnutrition continues to be a pressing challenge for Filipino children.

Malnutrition remains a major threat to the growth, development, and well-being of many kids across the country. Despite healthcare progress, children still face issues like undernutrition, vitamin deficiencies, and even obesity. These problems often stem from limited awareness and access to proper resources.

As parents, we have the power to set our children up for a successful and healthy year by focusing on one key area: nutrition. A strong nutritional foundation and healthy eating habits can help our little ones thrive both physically and mentally.

Nourish Your Child’s Growth with the Right Nutrients

Every child deserves the opportunity to grow strong and healthy, and this starts with proper nutrition. Data from the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) and the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM-2) show that one in three Filipino children experiences stunted growth or malnutrition. This can have lasting effects on their physical and cognitive development. The Philippines even ranks fifth in East Asia and the Pacific for stunting prevalence, placing it among the top 10 countries worldwide with the highest number of stunted children.

One of the main contributors to malnutrition is the lack of nutritional guidance, especially during the critical early childhood years. During these stages, both the body and brain grow rapidly, and improper nutrition can result in undernourishment. The long-term consequences include poor cognitive development, lower educational achievement, and reduced productivity later in life.

Understanding the Causes of Malnutrition

To fight malnutrition, it’s essential to understand its root causes. Issues like insufficient dietary intake, poor nutrient absorption, and inefficient nutrient utilization contribute to various forms of undernutrition, including stunting (low height-for-age), underweight (low weight-for-age), and wasting (low weight-for-height).

While access to food is crucial, ensuring our kids receive the right nutrients is even more important. Providing a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins will support both physical and mental growth. When we prioritize nutrition, we can reduce stunting and promote healthy development.

Healthy Growth Starts in the Kitchen

It all begins at home—healthy growth and development start in the kitchen. Preparing meals together not only ensures your children get the essential nutrients they need but also strengthens family bonds. Incorporating key macronutrients and minerals into your child’s diet will lay a strong foundation for their well-being.

Key Nutrients for Growth and Development

1. Protein – Essential for tissue repair and muscle growth, protein is critical for your child’s development. Foods like lean meats, dairy, eggs, and legumes are great sources of protein.
2. Iron – Iron is vital for delivering oxygen to cells and supporting overall development. Iron-rich foods like meat, eggs, and leafy greens should be included in your child’s meals.
3. Zinc – Zinc supports immune function and cell growth. Foods such as beef, spinach, and beans are excellent sources of zinc.
4. Arginine – This nutrient supports bone cell growth and stimulates the release of growth hormones. You can find arginine in nuts, grains, legumes, meat, seafood, eggs, and dairy products.
5. Vitamin K2 – Vitamin K2 helps absorb and transport calcium into the bones, supporting stronger bones and better bone density. It also promotes cardiovascular health. Fermented products like yogurt and cheese, along with animal-based foods like meat and eggs, provide ample amounts of Vitamin K2.

Meeting Your Child’s Nutritional Needs

While most essential nutrients are available in everyday foods, it’s important to ensure your child receives enough to support their growth. If you feel unsure about your child’s nutritional needs, consider consulting a pediatrician for advice on supplements.

Special formulations like PediaSure Plus, designed with 37 growth nutrients—including Natural Vitamin K2 for strong bones and added Arginine for faster linear growth—can also provide targeted support for your child’s development.

As Dr. Jose Dimaano, Jr., Nutrition Medical Director for Asia Pacific at Abbott, explains, “Understanding and being attentive to your children’s dietary needs is vital for their growth and development. Providing a balanced diet that includes essential nutrients like Arginine and Vitamin K2 can promote bone growth and overall physical development.”

By prioritizing these essential nutrients, we can help our children achieve healthy growth and development, setting them up for success in the year ahead. Let’s ensure they have the proper nutrition they need to reach their full potential.