ABSTRACT
Nutritional recommendations for children are based on daily allowances of nutrients established by the Food and Nutrition Board of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences; the latest update was published in 2005. Childhood is a period of growing up, which is why a considerable amount of nutrition from a well-balanced diet is required. A balanced diet contains a combination of several different food typesgrains and pulses, fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, dairy products, and fats and oils. Energy from the diet should be supplied in the following approximate proportions: 30% proteins, 20% fats, and 50% saccharides. About 60% of proteins consumed by children should be of animal origin. Vegetable oils should supply 20% of total daily energy.
