The Directorate-General for Health (DGS) suggests a reinforcement of vegetables and fruit in the children's diet and asks parents to avoid having them at home snacks hypercaloric, to prevent weight gain during social isolation.
In a manual that takes care of healthy eating and suggestions for activities for children, the DGS recalls that the need for a longer stay at home to stop the spread of the new coronavirus leads to less physical activity and changes in patterns of food purchases that may put some children at risk.
"The consumption of high-calorie foods and less nutritional density associated with a sedentary lifestyle can promote weight gain and the appearance of associated diseases in the future", warns the DGS.
In a country where 29,6% of children between 6 and 9 years of age are overweight, the director of the National Program for the Promotion of Healthy Eating advises: «consume soup at the start of the two main meals, include fruit as dessert also of the two main meals and one more, in the interim meals throughout the day, it is enough to reach the recommendation».
Speaking to Lusa agency, Maria João Gregório recalls that this manual – intended for parents and guardians, teachers and all those who at this time of social isolation have children at home – serves to «reinforce the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle ».
"It also serves to give suggestions for activities that can be developed with children and that can help maintain these healthy eating habits," he said, giving as an example the planning of the weekly menu and the preparation of meals together.
Maria João Gregório also remembers the importance of not having snacks caloric and unhealthy at home.
The official recalls that this period can also be an opportunity: «we need to keep the children occupied, so why not take advantage and do activities in the area of food, involving them in planning?».
“While keeping them busy, we deliver some important messages in the area of healthy eating. More than just telling you what to do, it's important to get your hands dirty and teach how to do it», adds the specialist.
The DGS manual advises families to opt for cooking pot meals, such as stews and stews, which maintain the nutrients in the food, give priority to water and pay particular attention to children who, at this stage, spend more time in media. and may, therefore, be easier advertising targets for less healthy products.
Another suggestion is, when shopping, for example, courses teach children to decode food labels, helping them to make healthier choices.
He also warns that milk and dairy products are important foods for the growth and development of children, as they are a source of vitamins, calcium and other minerals, but they should not be consumed in excess, with the daily limit amount to around 400-500ml.
Comments