He barely nibbles his meal and you automatically worry! Is he eating enough? Should you force it? Will something be missing? Let's talk about children's appetites and their nutritional needs.
Child portions
The number of recommended servings is well framed by the Canada's Food Guide so that children benefit from good nutrition. But what is a serving? Especially since a child's appetite changes a lot during growth!
A child's appetite varies according to several factors: his age, his level of mental and physical activity and his rate of growth largely influence his appetite, but even trivial factors such as mood or fatigue can weigh in the balance.
A child won't let himself starve to death! If you are still worried about his daily nutrient intake, see the article The little gourmandswhich contains tips to motivate picky eaters.
Daily servings for children, by age group
| 1 year | 2 years | 3 years | 4 to 6 years | |
| Fruit& vegetables |
4-6 servings of 60 to 80 ml(¼ to 1/3 cup) |
6 servings of 80 ml(1/3 cup) |
4 servings of 125 ml(½ cup) |
5 servings of 125 ml(½ cup) |
| Grain Products |
3 servings (including 1 of baby cereal) from 125 to 175 ml (½ to ¾ cup).½ slice of bread or 80 ml (1/3 cup). |
5 servings of 80 ml (1/3 cup) or ½ slice of bread. |
5 servings of 80 ml (1/3 cup) or ½ slice of bread. |
4 servings of 125 to 175 ml (½ to ¾ cup) or 1 slice of bread. |
| Milk & Alternatives |
6-7 servings of 125 ml (½ cup), of which at least 600-720 ml must be milk. |
4 servings of 125 ml (½ cup) of which 500 ml must be milk. |
4 servings of 125 ml (½ cup) of which 500 ml must be milk. |
2 servings of 250 ml (1 cup) of which 500 must be milk. |
| Meat & Substitutes |
2 to 3 servings of 30 to 45 ml (2 to 3 tbsp) of meat, 1 egg or 60 to 80 ml (¼ to 1/3 cup) of legumes. |
2 servings of 60 ml (¼ cup) of meat, 1 egg or 80 ml (1/3 cup) of legumes. |
2 servings of 60 ml (¼ cup) of meat, 1 egg or 80 ml (1/3cup) of legumes. |
2 servings of 60 ml (¼ cup) of meat, 1 egg or 80 ml (1/3 cup) of legumes. |
From Preschool Food Guide CHU Sainte-Justine.
Supplements (supplements, Ensure type drinks)
There are several products intended to supplement the diet, such as supplements and drinks that are meant to replace a meal. Should we give these extra proteins, vitamins and minerals to our children? Unless your doctor says otherwise, a child who eats a he althy and varied diet does not need these supplements since he gets all the nutrients he needs from his food.
Alternatively, a child who eats very little over a very long period of time may benefit from a meal drink or food supplement. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist.
How do you know if a child is eating enough?
Since his appetite can vary depending on several factors, make sure that the child is developing well despite his small appetite. Here are the signs to look out for to be sure your child is getting enough to eat:
- A he althy weight: If your child is below their he althy weight, consult your family doctor to find out what to do according to their personal situation.
- Energy level: If your child is often tired and has littleenergy, it is possible that he lacks vitamins or sleep. Be sure to vary his food so he can get all the nutrients he needs. A consultation with the doctor will give you appropriate answers to the case of your child.
- Immune system: A child who often gets sick often has an unbalanced diet.
- Concentration: A child who eats well will find it easier to concentrate.
