Nutrition

 Grains are a key fuel and a good source of complex carbohydrates, which are slower burning and provide a more sustained energy than refined grains. Refined white flour contains about 75% of the whole wheat kernels but fewer than half of the nutrients. Whole, unrefined grains provide a rich source of fiber, a wide range of B vitamins, vitamin E and many important minerals such as magnesium, zinc, potassium, and iron to help ensure a nutrient rich source of energy. 

 The brain is 60% fat and it’s essential to know which fats will best feed your brain. Not only do children need them to stay free from disease, they also need them to maximize intelligence. Essential fats, omega-3 and omega-6, are the only two fats that must be obtained trough the diet. Omega-3 fats are provided best with fish and flax-seed and optimal omega-6 sources can be found in pumpkin and sunflower seeds. 

 Protein is needed for the growth and the maintenance of a healthy body. Protein makes up about 20% of our body weight and is the primary component of our muscles, skin, hair, nails, eyes and internal organs, especially our heart and brain. Providing essential protein from sources like fish, turkey and chicken supports many functions including the formation of anti-bodies required to help fight infections. 

 Water is fundamental to health and is involved in almost every bodily function. Water requirements can vary greatly from child to child. Ensuring your child is well hydrated with fresh water throughout the day is crucial to a healthy mind and healthy body. 

 Plant substances are being recognized as powerful factors in the fight against disease. Fruits and vegetables not only offer a wide variety of vitamins and minerals essential for health, they also provide phytonutrients. These phytonutrients have been shown to have important immune-enhancing effects in helping to maintain a healthy immune system. Eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables allows these phytonutrients the ability to enhance the body’s self-protective powers.