Dubai, UAE - Ensuring your underweight child receives proper nutrition is highly essential for their growth, development, and overall well-being. While increasing calorie intake in the child’s diet may seem like a critical process, following a comprehensive approach recommended by the best Dietician in Dubai can make a significant difference.
Let’s explore some proven and practical strategies to boost calorie intake in your child’s diet effectively.
#1. Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Foods
Select foods rich in both calories and essential nutrients to maximize your child's nutritional intake. Include a variety of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, in their meals and snacks. These options not only provide valuable calories but also deliver essential vitamins and minerals crucial for their growth and development.
#2. Emphasize protein-rich choices
Protein plays a vital role in muscle development and tissue repair, making it very important for underweight children. Incorporate lean sources of protein, such as poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, and dairy products, into their diet. The best Nutritionists in Dubai recommend high protein foods that contribute to calorie consumption and also promote healthy weight gain.
#3. Encourage frequent, small meals and snacks
Divide your child's daily calorie intake into several smaller meals and snacks spread throughout the day. Give them nutrient-full snacks like yogurt with fruit, cheese, and whole-grain crackers, or a homemade mix between meals. Such small meal or snack options ensure a continuous supply of energy and promote better appetite regulation.
#4. Choose whole grains
Choose whole-grain alternatives instead of refined grains to increase both nutrient and calorie intake in your child’s diet. Opt for whole-grain bread, pasta, rice, and cereals, which offer more nutrients and also provide sustained energy due to their higher fiber content, keeping your child fuller for longer periods.
#5. Add calorie-boosting ingredients
Enhance the calorie intake of your child's meals and snacks by adding calorie-dense ingredients. For example, add cheese or avocado slices to sandwiches, mix nut butter into oatmeal or smoothies, and drizzle olive oil over roasted vegetables or salads. These simple additions recommended by the best Pediatrician and Nutritionist in Dubai enhance the calorie density of your child’s diet without increasing significant portion sizes.
#6. Limit low-calorie beverages
Encourage your child to consume calorie-containing beverages such as milk and vegetable based smoothies along with a lot of water. These beverages not only contribute additional calories but also supply essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin C, and potassium. Always consider guidance from a trusted Nutritionist in Dubai for appropriate quantities to avoid excessive sugar intake.
#7. Engage Your Child in Meal Preparation
Involve your child in meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking to promote their positive relationship with food. Allow them to choose their favorite healthy foods, experiment with new recipes, and participate in age-appropriate kitchen tasks. This approach empowers your child and increases their enthusiasm for nutritious eating and meal choices.
#8. Monitor Progress and Seek Professional Guidance
Regularly monitor your child's weight, growth, and dietary habits to examine progress and potential challenges. Consult with the best Pediatrician in Dubai if you have concerns about your child's weight gain or nutritional status. The experts can provide personalized recommendations and guidance tailored to your child's specific needs.
Hence, increasing calorie intake in an underweight child's diet requires a diverse approach that prioritizes nutrient density, protein-rich foods, and strategic meal planning. By following these detailed strategies and seeking professional support from the best Dietician in Dubai when needed, you can effectively support your child's nutritional needs and promote healthy weight gain.
At myPediaclinic, our team of experienced Pediatricians and Nutritionists is dedicated to providing personalized support to help your child grow and develop. Whether your little one is underweight, facing dietary challenges, or simply aiming for optimal health, our professionals offer compassionate care and evidence-based strategies to promote lifelong wellness. Trust myPediaclinic to partner with you on your child's journey to better nutrition and overall well-being.
About myPediaclinic:
myPediaclinic is a multi-specialist Pediatric Clinic in Dubai, offering a wide range of healthcare services for young patients. The specialties include Pediatrics, Orthodontics, Pediatric Dentistry, and Nutrition. As one of the most trusted and kid-friendly clinics in the country, the doctors and staff at myPediaclinic are focused on delivering quality treatment and consultation for the long-term health and well-being of their patients.