PW invited parents from Edify School, Tirupati to share their thoughts on how they ensure their children get balanced nutrition

“We are very mindful about the right combination of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fibres and minerals in the meals that we provide our daughter Aditi R (class VIII). For breakfast, we ensure supplementing her regular idly, dosa, and upma fare with eggs, fresh fruits and dry fruits. Lunches are focused on vegetable salads and fruits followed by a healthy homemade snack such as dry fruit laddu or peanut chikkis etc. Aditi enjoys a protein-rich smoothie in the evenings, and wraps up the day with a vegetable salad and fruits” — Dr. Radhika H, Intensivist at Amara Hospitals“Children’s diet should ideally be based on age, weight and metabolism among other factors. For our teenage daughter Nythik (class X), we pack her meals with proteins, fruits, vegetables, grains and dairy white taking care to limit sugar, salt and saturated fats. Focusing on dense foods helps children get the nutrients they need. To improve her nutrition, we encourage her to consume homemade healthy meals and snacks, follow an eat healthy mantra ourselves, and avoid battles over food” — Dr. Swapna Allareddy, Consultant Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon, Super Specialty Hospital, Tirupati

“Ensuring my son Srisanth (class X) gets balanced nutrition involves rustling up a variety of healthy meals that include proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats and fruity snacks. However I restrict his consumption of processed foods and those containing excess sugar. Most weekends I involve my son in meals preparation so I can teach him about health and dietary habits. Setting a good example and always staying positive towards the foods we eat can greatly help in developing healthy food habits” — Sumalatha Venamadala, Homemaker

“Balanced nutrition for my son Rishaan (class VI) means making mealtimes enjoyable and educational. My focus is on providing him a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins to cover all nutritional bases. I also involve him in choosing and preparing meals to spark his interest in healthy eating. By keeping healthy snacks handy and setting a good example by eating healthy ourselves, I help him learn the value of balanced nutrition” — Shivani Mohan, HR Consultant