A good diet provides children with the nutrients that are vital for health. Children need:
Protein for growth and maintenance of all their body’s processes.
Eat: Meat, fish, lentils, beans, nuts, tofu, quorn
Limit: Processed meat, e.g. sausage, ham, bacon
Carbohydrate for energy. this is the fuel for the child’s body and brain.
Eat: Whole grains, beans, starchy vegetables
Limit: Sugar
Fats for vitamin and mineral absorption, muscle movement and cell development.
Eat: Oily fish, nuts and seeds, olive oil, avocado
Limit: Butter, trans fats
Vitamins and minerals for the health of the body’s structures, organs and processes including cells, skin, bones, teeth, vision, blood pressure, hormone regulation.
Eat: Natural food including fruit, vegetables and milk
N.B. Do not give children vitamin supplements without the permission of their social worker.
Water for the health of all body systems. Water improves brain function and mood, and aids healthy digestion.
Drink: Water, milk
Eat: Fruit and vegetables
Limit: Sugary drinks
For healthy eating advice, including suggestions for healthy food swaps, visit:
For healthy lunchbox ideas, visit:
Click here for the NHS BMI Calculator to check that your child’s weight is within the healthy range.
