Here are a few guidelines to help make good nutrition a natural part of your child's life. For babies under one year of age, breastmilk is best. It contains all of the necessary vitamins and minerals needed for optimal growth and development. While plenty of sun exposure will allow most children to produce their own Vitamin D, supplemental Vitamin D and flouride can be prescribed by your child's physician if needed. If your child is on formula, be sure to use one that is iron fortified.
Some people believe the iron in formula can cause constipation.
Studies, however, have dispelled this myth. After turning age one, children should not drink more than 16 ounces of milk a day. Drinking excessive amounts of milk can suppress appetite and doesn't allow them to consume vitamins and iron found in other foods. In addition to dairy products, children's diets should contain a variety of foods, including vegetables, grains, fruits and meat. Studies have shown that excessive sugar intake actually makes children sleepy.