Lactose intolerance results in symptoms of bloating, gas, stomach cramping and diarrhea after eating dairy products. However, most children can tolerate lactose. Recent studies show, however, that even children diagnosed with lactose intolerance can drink one to two cups of milk each day without suffering abdominal discomfort. Encourage your child to look for grilled items or substitute baked potatoes for French fries. Fast-food restaurants offer milk and juice, too, so encourage your child to avoid the sodas and milk shakes.
Researchers believe breakfast affects learning in two ways.
While further research is needed to pin down the relationship between morning nutrition and academic achievement, it's safe to assume that the estimated 12 percent of American students who skip breakfast are missing out on an important key to success in school. You should check with your doctor if you suspect your child is more than 20 percent above the ideal weight for his weight and height range. If your child is moderately overweight, there will probably be no talk of dieting at this age. Instead, your doctor will try to slow down the weight gain by changing eating habits, lowering fat intake and increasing your child's level of activity. During the course of the program, the emphasis should be on adopting a healthier lifestyle for the long term, not just on losing weight now.