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In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Abhishek Chopra, Consultant Neonatologist and Paediatrician at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals in New Delhi’s Punjabi Bagh, emphasized the importance of parents and society in guiding children towards making informed and nutritious food choices. By instilling healthy eating habits early, we can set the foundation for a lifetime of better health, energy, and vitality.
Parents play a crucial role in shaping healthy eating habits in children by being role models and involving them in food preparation. Education about nutrition is also key, with schools playing an important role in teaching children how food impacts their energy, concentration, and mood. Dr Chopra highlighted the benefits of promoting environments that support healthy eating, including accessible fresh produce, nutrition programs, and sports activities.
He also emphasized the long-term benefits of healthy food choices, including stronger immune systems, better mental health, and lower risks of chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Children who eat well-balanced diets are more likely to have enhanced cognitive function, boosted energy, improved mood, and develop healthier habits.
Dr Chopra recommended a variety of foods for a healthy diet, including fruits, vegetables, grains, lean meats, dairy, and foods that release energy slowly. He advised against foods high in fat, sugar, or salt, and provided guidelines for introducing cow’s milk, low-fat dairy products, and avoiding packaged juices.
For fussy eaters, he suggested introducing new foods gradually and making mealtimes fun. Physical activity was also highlighted as essential for overall health and well-being, with preschoolers and children aged 6-17 encouraged to engage in active play for at least 3 hours or 60 minutes daily, respectively. By encouraging healthy food choices and regular physical activity, parents and society can help children build the foundation for a bright, healthy future.
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