Investigating nutritional problems in children Proper nutrition in childhood plays an essential role in the physical, mental and social development of a child... this critical period of life is the basis of a person's health in the future... but many children struggle with various nutritional problems that can have long-term and sometimes irreparable effects on them... undereating, overeating, malnutrition, lack or overweight, lack of nutrients or behavioral disorders in eating... all kinds of nutritional problems in children ### Malnutrition (selective nutrition) Malnutrition is one of the most common problems.... The child accepts only certain foods and avoids eating many foods, especially fruits, vegetables or meat.... ### Underweight and malnutrition In cases where the child does not receive enough energy or nutrients, he may be underweight or malnourished, which affects physical and mental development... ### Obesity and overweight High consumption of calories, fatty or sweet foods along with inactivity causes obesity in children.... This problem is related to metabolic and heart diseases in the future.... ### Lack of micronutrients (deficiency of micronutrients) The child may have a deficiency of vitamins such as D, A, B12 or minerals such as iron, calcium or zinc, which has a negative effect on immunity, growth and learning ability.... ### Nutritional disorders Disorders such as "anorexia nervosa" or "bulimia" may also occur in some children and adolescents, which require specialized psychiatric and nutritional interventions... The cause of nutritional problems in children ### Family factors The wrong pattern of eating in the family, coercion by parents, punishment or reward with food or lack of food variety can cause nutritional problems.... ### Psychological factors Anxiety, depression, academic pressure or behavioral issues can decrease or increase appetite.... ### Media advertising and lifestyle Excessive exposure to fast food and unhealthy drink advertisements along with inactivity increases obesity and unhealthy eating habits.... ### Physical or medical disorders Gastrointestinal diseases, food allergies, chronic constipation or metabolic problems can also affect a child's nutrition.. Children with developmental delays, autism, or speech problems may also have difficulty eating... Warning signs of feeding problems in children... - Severe weight loss or gain - Insufficient height and weight growth compared to growth charts - Constant refusal to eat - Chronic fatigue and poor concentration - Dental caries caused by high consumption of sugar - Irritability or depression Long-term consequences of nutritional problems - Physical growth disorder (height and weight) - Immunity weakness and increased incidence of diseases - Brain development and learning disorders - Behavioral or psychological problems - Increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure in adulthood The role of parents in healthy nutrition of children Parents play an essential role in the formation of children's nutritional habits. Dr. Mehdi Afshari's solutions for the proper nutrition of your child are as follows: - Parents themselves should have a healthy diet.... - Creating a stress-free environment while eating.... - Introducing new foods gradually and creatively.... - Not forcing the child to eat or rewarding with food.... - Encouraging the child to help prepare food.... Appropriate nutrition based on the child's age ### Baby (up to one year): - Exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months - Starting complementary foods from 6 months - Attention to food sensitivities during this period ### Childhood (1 to 5 years old): - Variety of food from all food groups (dairy, grains, vegetables, meat and fruits) - Avoiding processed foods - Providing iron and vitamin D needs ## School period (6 to 12 years): - The need for more calories due to physical activity - Teaching the importance of breakfast - Eating healthy snacks - The role of schools and society in prevention - Nutrition education in schools - Removing unhealthy foods from school buffets - Holding nutrition workshops for parents and teachers - Media culture about healthy eating - Specialized treatment and intervention... In severe cases, it is necessary to refer to a child development and nutrition specialist in Tehran or a child psychiatrist... Treatment approaches include: - Specific treatment regimen based on growth status - Examining psychological causes - Use of supplements if needed - Treatment of related disorders such as constipation or allergies - Practical solutions to improve child nutrition - Daily meal plan including 3 main meals and 2 snacks - Use of attractive dishes and plates for children - Introduction of foods along with games, stories or music - Cooking food with creative and colorful shapes - Setting the time for regular eating - Limit the consumption of sugar, soft drinks and ready meals #### Summary Nutritional problems in children is a serious issue that can have a wide impact on their physical and mental health. These problems are often preventable and treatable, provided that parents, schools, and the health system play their roles properly. Teaching healthy nutrition, creating correct patterns and early identification of problems is the key to creating a healthy and energetic generation.. Contact Dr. Mehdi Afshari at 02166602506 or Internet for advice. Nutritionist in Tehran