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Children between the ages of one and four should take vitamin D supplements between Halloween and St. Patrick’s Day each year, according to new guidelines issued by the Department of Health.
He said these supplements are necessary because children living in Ireland do not get enough vitamin in the winter months.
Most of our vitamin D comes from the sunlight on our skin. The vitamin is formed under the skin in reaction to sunlight.
The guidelines say that children should be given 5 mcg of “vitamin D only” supplements daily during this period.
The revised guidelines also urge parents to ensure that children have enough iron in their diet by offering red meat three times a week and breakfast cereals containing at least 12 mg / 100 g of iron several times a week.
The Department also said that if a child is small for his age, his family should speak to a dietitian for advice.
The importance of serving size is also outlined in the guidelines.
It is recommended that children’s meals be served in small plates that are approximately one-third the serving size of adults.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly, Children’s Minister Roderic O’Gorman and State Minister for Public Health and Welfare Frank Feighan today launched the first National Healthy Eating Guidelines for children ages one to four.
Are you struggling with what your preschoolers eat?
The new Food Pyramid for Children Ages 1-4 will help you decide what and how much your child should eat.
Launch at 11 a.m. M. From this morning.
Minister watch @StephenDonnelly talk about the guidelines #childrenpyramid pic.twitter.com/rtqJzjNnUk– HealthyIreland (@HealthyIreland) October 1, 2020
Speaking at the launch of the guidelines, Minister Donnelly said: “We all want to give our children the best start and helping them establish a healthy relationship with food is something that will benefit them throughout their lives.
“These guidelines will help parents and caregivers prepare their children for healthier lives and are another step in helping make healthy choices the easiest choice for all.”
The new advice includes a food pyramid that outlines the recommended amount of foods for young children in several categories, including fat, candy, and dairy.
Parents are advised to limit foods and drinks that are high in fat, sugar, and salt. “If you decide to give your child these foods, offer them in small amounts and only once a week,” the Health Department said.
A square of chocolate, three chips, or a half cookie are examples of a treat that should only be given to a child once a week.
More resources and information are available here.
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