How to Keep Your Child Healthy

As parent, you can help your child avoid many illnesses and health problems by providing a basic framework of good health care. This framework should consist of well-balanced diet, plenty of exercise , reasonable safety precautions. and regular medical checkups. You can't always prevent your child in getting sick, but, if you follow the advice, you'll  provide your child with a foundation for good health that should help him or her recover from any illnesses. With your guidance and encouragement, your child can establish a pattern of healthy living for the rest of his or her life.

EATING A HEALTHY DIET
A child who eat a well-balanced diet that contains sufficient quantities of essential nutrients is likely to grow and develop at the expected rate and will be less susceptible to, and more likely to recover from, many of the minor illnesses of childhood. Children who establish good eating habits often continue them as adult. As your child grows older, provide a balanced diet of a variety of nutritious foods, including poultry, fish, meats, beans and legumes, dairy products, whole-grain products (breads and cereals), and fresh fruits and vegetables. Keep processed foods to a minimum and limit your child's consumption of sugary foods, which can lead to obesity and tooth decay, and foods high in salt and fat, which can contribute to illness later in life.

 Some helpful tips in choosing the right food for your child.
Good breakfast might be..
- A whole-grain cereal with milk (high in fiber and vitamins)
-A glass of orange juice (high in vitamin C)
-Whole-grain toast with margarine, jam, fruit spread,and eggs (high in fiber and carbohydrates,moderate in protein)
Typical lunch might be..
-Peanut butter sandwich on whole-grain bread (high in fiber and carbohydrates and proteins)
-Low-sugar, low-fat oatmeal cookies  (high in fiber and carbohydrates) 
-Milk (good source of calcium)
Typical dinner might consist of.. 
-Baked potato with grated low-fat cheese  (high in protein and carbohydrates, medium in fiber and vitamins)
-Fish and vegetable salad (high in protein and vitamins)
-Fresh fruits ( high in fiber and vitamins).

GETTING ENOUGH EXERCISE
Exercise is essential for children. It helps them develop strong muscles and a healthy heart and lungs. Encourage your child to exercise. Give your baby a safe environment so he or she can play freely on the floor. Take your toddler on frequent playground outings and walks; don't confine him or her to the stroller. Many children develop sedentary life-styles from watching television and playing video games all day; encourage your older children to spend more time outdoors in active play. Organized sports are fine, but any activity that gets your child up and running is a good choice. What's most important is to find activities your child enjoys. Better yet, make exercise something the whole family can enjoy.

PREVENTIVE MEDICAL CARE
Every child should be taken to visit the doctor for regular checkups. These visits will give you the opportunity to discuss your child's progress and any matters concern, and will ensure that minor problems are noticed before they become more serious. 
The most important element in preventive medical care for your child is immunization against a range of infectious diseases. Immunization must be part of your child's regular health care program. Your doctor can advise you on an appropriate immunization schedule.