Healthy eating is important to ensure children receive all the nutrients they need to grow and develop. Eating well and being physically active will not only improve children's health, it will also enhance their ability to learn and achieve at school

The 2002 Children's Nutritional Survey reported that approximately one thrid of New Zealand children aged between 5 and 14 years were overweight (21%) or obese (10%). The medical complications of obesity include diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, gall bladder disease and cancer.

Children need to eat a variety of different foods for their growth, development and health. More active children required more energy from food that less active children. Children should eat food from the four food groups each day.

Vegetables and fruit provide energy (sugar and starch), fibre, vitamins and minerals, and are low in fat. Primary children should have at least 3 serves of vegetables and 2 serves of fruit per day.

Breads and cereals provide the best source of energy for the body. Primary children should have at least 5 serves per day.

Lean meats, chicken, seafood, eggs, dried beans, peas and lentils all contain protein and various vitamins and minerals (especially iron). Primary children should have at least 1 serve per day.

Milk and milk products have energy, protein and most vitamins and minerals. Primary children should have at least 3 servings per day.

It is also extremely important to provide children with plenty of water to drink. Water carries essential nutrients to body tissues, removes waste products and maintains body temperature.

If you are interested in finding out more about drinks and their place in a balanced diet, click on the link below to download a copy of the brochure 'Guide to making healthy beverage choices':
Guide to making healthy beverage choices 

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