Top 5 Essential Nutrients for Kids

As a mom of four boys I know keeping them healthy is important for us all. Ensuring they are getting enough vitamins and nutrients is an important part of that process. Here is a look at the top 5 essential nutrients your kid needs to stay healthy.

1. Fiber. While it is usually stressed at being important for adults many take for granted that kids are automatically getting enough fiber however this is not always the case. There are many times where kids do not get enough fiber for their digestive process to work properly. Besides keeping their system working right getting enough fiber can also help them later on in life helping prevent against health conditions such as diabetes. You can add extra fiber to your kids' diet by serving raw vegetables. Add some ranch dressing for them to dip the vegetables in if they are picky eaters. Another great way is to add yogurt to their diet. There are a few different yogurts on the market that are geared towards kids. Put one in their lunches or give it to them as an after school snack.

2. Calcium. Calcium is very important in your kids' diet because it helps build and strengthen their bones and encourage healthy development in children. Nutritionists have determined that kids need at least 3 servings of calcium a day and these are usually found in dairy products. Milk is an excellent source of calcium. One way to make it special is to add some chocolate or strawberry flavoring.

3. Vitamin E. Vitamin E is especially important for kids who are in school or daycare. Vitamin E helps promote their immune system and helps the child fight off illness. Nuts and oils are an excellent source of Vitamin E. To add this nutrient to your kids diet you can give them peanut butter sandwiches or snacks filled with nuts. Leafy vegetables are another way to get them the Vitamin E they need.

4. Magnesium. This mineral is one of the most important when it comes to your child's overall health. Besides helping with bone density it also helps the body function right. Magnesium can be found in fish as well as whole grains.

5. Potassium. Potassium is essential helping your child's heart rhythm, the way the muscles function as well as help to keep your child's blood pressure in check. While orange juice and bananas are excellent sources of potassium you can also add potassium to their diet by adding some extra dairy and meat to their diet. Pork is an excellent choice for those looking to add potassium.