• About Us
  • NURAL Company Profile
  • NURAL Vision And Mission Statement
  • NURAL CSR Position Statement
  • Watch Our Videos
  • Picture Gallery
• NURAL Products
  • NUGROW 123
  • NUGROW 456
  • Our Story
  • FAQ

• NURAL ENVIRO INFO
  • Environment Education
• NURAL NEWS UPDATE
• I CHOOSE TO STAY CLOSE
• NUTRITION
• NINO & NINA SUPERHEROES
• PARENTING EXPERIENCES
• PRESS OFFICE
• RECOGNIZE IMPORTANCE OF CHILD PROGRESS

Nutrition from Fruits for Kids

Children need fruits as they are rich in various nutrients and goodness. Fruits are made up of carbohydrate, vitamins and minerals. The carbohydrate in fruits is derived from the sugar in fruits, which provides us with energy. Fruits are also very rich in fibre, which helps prevent constipation, a common ailment in children.

High Vitamin Content
Fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals. All of which are crucial for our bodies to develop and fight bacteria and disease. Fruits contain the following vitamins:-

Bananas - Vitamin A, B1, B2 & C
Mangoes – Vitamin A, E & C
Papayas – Vitamin C & Provitamin A

Variety
Fruits can be enjoyed either raw or processed. Cakes and juices are examples of processed fruits. Studies have shown that our body’s blood sugar levels are affected by the amount of sugar or carbohydrate in fruit juices, and not the type of sugar in fruit juices. For children, it is recommended that parents do not add sugar to their fruit juices.

Source of Antioxidants
Most fruits are rich in soluble fiber. Antioxidants are a type of molecule which are also known as Bioflavonoids, often found naturally with Ascorbic Acid.  Studies also show that fruits are able to reduce the risk of Cancer and certain cardiovascular diseases.

Citrus Fruits and Vitamin C
Lemons, limes and oranges are examples of citrus fruits. Most of these types of fruits are very juicy, making them ideal for juicing. Citrus fruits are also famous for being rich in Vitamin C. For example, an orange contains 65mg of Vitamin C. These fruits also help with the digestion of fat, and reduces cholesterol in our bodies. Compared with other citrus fruits, oranges are very rich in Vitamin C (also known as Beta-Carotene). They are also thought to help fight off bacteria and helps us improve our immune system, also reducing the risk of Cancer.

Simple Servings
Fruits are easy to prepare and digest. Fruits also have the lowest allergy risk (foods which pose a high allergy risk are usually some form of protein from food). Mangoes for example are thought to be able to lower the body’s temperature (during a fever), as well as to reduce pressure. It’s natural nutrients also helps maintain a healthy immune system.

Although most fruits can be eaten as they are (without peeling), before giving them to children the fruits should be thoroughly washed first.

References:-
1. The Nutrient – Dense Eating Plan : A Lifetime Eating Guide To Exceptional Foods For  Super Health, Douglas L. Margel, D.C (2005)
2. Diabetes Meals On The Run : Fast, Healthy Menues Using Convenience Foods, Betty Wedman – St Louis (2002)
3. Staying Healthy with Nutrition, Elson M.Haas, M.D (1992)
4. Ministry of Health, Malaysia

                                      BACK