Rushden dietitian looks at poor diets in children as she shares more of her knowledge on eating well during the pandemic

An expert on diet and nutrition is offering advice on giving your child the best possible diet during the pandemic.

Dr Mabel Blades of Rushden is a registered dietitian and nutritionist with a PhD in diet and diabetes.

She has her own business, Nutrition and Dietetic Services, after working in the NHS for many years and now does consultancy as well as writing books.

Dr Blades has been sharing her knowledge with the Northants Telegraph in recent months, helping us make good use of the food in our cupboards and offering advice on getting a balanced diet during the pandemic.

This week she is talking about poor diets for children.

Dr Blades told the Northants Telegraph: "There has been a lot of information in the media about inadequate diets for children.

"Last time I discussed malnutrition in older people so I felt it important to address issues in children.

"This is a difficult time for parents with home schooling and working as well as managing food for the family and often a constant request for snacks.

"The Caroline Walker Trust produces a wealth of useful information for parents including practical information on topics such as weaning and portion sizes which is well worth

looking at.

"From research in this country there appear to be issues with children being overweight and for anyone concerned the NHS website has a useful BMI calculator for both adults and

children, plus tips on what to do if the BMI is on the low or high side.

"Research shows that children often have low intakes of fruit and vegetables and not the five portions per day advised.

"A portion for children is less than the 80g size advised for adults and teenagers and an easy way of thinking of it is the amount held in a child’s hand which is around 40g.

"Fruit and vegetables contain a range of vitamins as well as dietary fibre which is important for bowel health.

"Dietary fibre is also found in whole grain items like oats, wholemeal bread and wholegrain cereals.

"Unfortunately due to a lack of fibre and fluid some children can suffer from constipation which can cause discomfort and also irritable behaviour, so try to make sure everyone has

enough fibre and fluid."

Dr Blades also advises that for specific advice on diet, you should consult your dietitian, doctor or health professional.

To read more from Dr Blades about eating well during the pandemic, click here for her most recent piece on malnutrition or follow her on Twitter @blades_mabel

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