Tips to Help Kids Beat the Heat and Eat Healthy

By : Jodie Shield | 0 Comments | On : July 20, 2010 | Category : Adults

 

By:  Jodie Shield, RD

 

Scorching heat.  Sticky humidity.  When the temperature soars, kids’ appetites often take a dive.  During the warm-weather months, kids run around outdoors and play for longer hours, which often distracts them from eating or makes them too tired to eat.   To make sure your little one stays well hydrated and well fortified during the hot summer months, it’s important to pay close attention to the following nutrients.

Water.  Children are particularly vulnerable to becoming dehydrated.  But drinking at least six to eight cups of water a day can help prevent dehydration.  Send kids out to play with a water bottle, or call them in for a refreshing glass of cool water.

Calories.  Playing in the heat requires extra calories for the body to maintain its built-in air-conditioning system (a.k.a. sweating).  Frequent mini-meals can help provide these extra calories.

Calcium and protein.  Milk is an excellent source of calcium and protein, but kids tend to drink less of it in the summer because it’s not as easy to transport and keep cool as other beverages.  Calcium is necessary to build strong bones, and protein helps children grow and fight off infections.  For kids on the go, try offering other dairy foods like low-fat yogurt, sting cheese, or pudding pops, which all contain calcium and protein.

According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, kids need to run around and play at least 60 minutes a day (www.dietaryguidelines.gov).  This summer make sure they’re hydrated and healthy by focusing on key nutrients such as water, calories, calcium, and protein.   Does anybody know how many calories kids burn catching lightening bugs?