The CEO of Legendary Foods Services, a Food Scientist based in Asesewa, Upper Manya Krobo District, Mrs Monica Ayiku is urging the public to prioritize their children’s nutrition, as it plays a crucial role in driving growth and development. Paying close attention to a child’s diet is essential for their overall well-being and future health.
In an interview on Trust FM’s Agoo Ghana Food and Nutrition segment on Tuesday morning, she emphasized that parents and guardians must prioritize providing nutrient-dense foods for their children’s optimal development while limiting their consumption of packaged foods as much as possible.
Mrs Ayiku stressed that while foods with preservatives may not be inherently harmful, they can still have a detrimental impact by destroying essential enzymes that the body needs to function properly, highlighting the importance of choosing wholesome foods for optimal health.
She advocated for the consumption of fresh produce from backyard gardens and farms, rich in raw and fresh nutrients, which are more beneficial to the human body than processed foods with added preservatives to extend their shelf life.
Mrs Ayiku added that parenting is a significant responsibility that requires considerable time and dedication to yield the best outcomes, particularly when it comes to providing optimal nutrition for children.
Mrs Ayiku pointed out that common plants, often overlooked in backyard gardens and bushes, are actually valuable sources of essential nutrients. She specifically mentioned turkey berries and dandelion as examples of these underappreciated vegetables, which offer exceptional nutritional benefits.”
Children under 5 need nutritious food to grow and develop, however, fast foods and processed meals often lack essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre. A balanced diet with whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, lean proteins and healthy fats, is crucial for young children’s health and development.
Source: Trust 98.3FM/www.trustfmonline.com
