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Stay healthy with fruits (1)
 Most fruits are naturally low in fat, sodium and calories so consume them.

Stay healthy with fruits (1)

July 1 was International Fruit Day.  It is a day set aside to create awareness of the importance of fruits and it is marked by sharing fruits with others.

To learn  more about fruits, the  Editor of the Junior Graphic, Doreen Hammond (DH), spoke to Dr Abigail Aphyra Akosua Konadu Yiadom (Doc).

She is a nutrition advocate certified by UNICEF Ghana and the Ghana Health service and a health instructor.
 She spoke to our Editor, Doreen Hammond (DH)

DH: Why is it important for children to eat fruits?

Doc: Fruits are important for children due to the nutrients they possess. Fruits such as orange, pineapple etc belong to the citric family and also contribute to the prevention of anaemia by acting as an enhancer by aiding the proper absorption of iron for a healthy haemoglobin level.
 

Fruits such as avocado, pawpaw, banana, watermelon, mango, coconut etc are all good and should be part of our daily meals as children because they are blessed with potassium, magnesium, iron, copper, manganese.

Potassium helps with the regulation of fluid balance in the body and plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy blood pressure and also important for normal growth and for the building of muscle.

Magnesium helps children with their concentration, bone and teeth health. Iron helps with preventing iron deficiency. Copper is necessary for survival. Manganese is vital for bone development and health of children.

D.H: How often should children eat fruits?

Doc: Fruits should be a part of a child’s daily meals. You are advised to take a fruit each day as a child at least so that you can benefit from these important rewards you are served with as nutrients for eating fruits. Your body needs these nutrients on a daily basis and so eating fruits will supply your body with its daily need.

D.H. Does it matter? The quantity?

Doc: The food we eat will also supply our body’s need for vitamins and minerals while fruits does its own too. The benefits each serves your body are different but all important. Don’t abuse them;

• Orange  - 1 medium size for the day; 1/2 for younger children is okay.

• Apple - 1 medium size for the day; 1/2 for younger children.

• Watermelon - 1(1/2) sardine tin size; 1 for younger children.

• Mango - 1 cup of the cut mango or 1 of the local one; 1/2 cup of cut one for younger children.

• Coconut juice  -200ml is okay; 100ml for younger children.

• Pawpaw - 1 cup cubed or 1/4 slice; 1/2 or 1/6 slice for younger children.

To be continued

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