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Even though it is not a vulnerable group to be infected with the Corona virus, the risk of children being infected with this virus still exists. Therefore, it is important for Mother to always pay attention to the nutritional intake of children during the COVID-19 pandemic so that their immune system remains strong.

One of the basic precautions to ward off Corona virus is to increase endurance, especially by eating healthy food every day. It aims to improve the immune system so it is not easily attacked by bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses, including the Corona virus.

This is Nutrition for Children that Must Be Fulfilled During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The suggestion to always eat nutritious foods doesn't only apply to adults, Bun. Children are also strongly encouraged to regularly eat healthy foods so they don't get sick easily. In addition, healthy eating will also support the process of growth and development, you know.

So, what nutrients are needed to prevent children from Corona virus infection during the COVID-19 pandemic? The following is a list of recommended nutrients that are always on the child's diet:

1. Protein

Protein is a macronutrient that is really needed by a child's body and should not be missed, regardless of whether there is a pandemic or not. These nutrients play a role in building muscles and various body tissues, building and repairing damaged tissue, maintaining the immune system, and as a source of energy.

To obtain these benefits, Mother can provide food that is a source of protein, such as meat, eggs, nuts, fish, and milk and its processed products, both in the main meal menu and snacks for Little while at home.

2. Omega-3 fatty acids

The intake of omega-3 fatty acids is no less important for children. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that we really need but cannot be produced by the body, so it must be obtained from food.

Omega-3 has benefits to increase intelligence and focus, strengthen the immune system, and make you sleep more soundly. Omega-3 is also thought to have a good effect on a child's mood and mental health. This is important because the changes that occur during the COVID-19 pandemic can trigger anxiety in children.

Some sources of omega-3 that Mother can choose include fish, such as anchovies, salmon, and sardines; nuts, like almonds and walnuts; and seeds, like flaxseed and chia seed

3. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is known to strengthen the immune system and improve the health of the respiratory system. This is important, especially in the COVID-19 pandemic as it is now.

In addition, because it can increase the absorption of calcium in the intestine, vitamin D also plays a role in building and maintaining healthy bones and muscles.

The body naturally produces vitamin D when the child is in the sun. However, in the midst of a pandemic like today, children may be less exposed to sunlight because they must remain at home to break the chain of transmission of the Corona virus.

Therefore, to avoid vitamin D deficiency, give your child a variety of foods that are fortified with this vitamin, such as spinach, cabbage, soybeans, sardines, salmon, and oatmeal and cereals./ p>

4. Calcium

Even if it has to be at home, the child certainly must remain active during the COVID-19 pandemic. In order to stay active, your child certainly needs nutrients that can strengthen bones and support nerve and muscle function. Well, this function can be obtained from calcium.

Lack of sun exposure and vitamin D production during the COVID-19 pandemic can have a direct impact on calcium levels in a child's body. Therefore, in addition to providing Little Food a source of vitamin D, Mother also needs to make sure her food contains enough calcium.

Foods high in calcium include milk, yogurt, cheese, edamame, green leafy vegetables, oranges, beans, and tofu. These foods can be if you become the main food or snacks.

In addition to foods with the above nutrients, Mother can also multiply food choices that are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are an excellent ingredient for children's body power because they can protect body cells from damage caused by free radicals and soothe inflammation.

Several types of antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, E, and flavonoids, can easily be found in a variety of colorful vegetables and fruits.

Tips for Meeting Children's Nutrition Needs

The nutrients above are needed by the child's body to stay healthy, especially during this pandemic. However, providing a source of nutrition for children is not always easy, especially if your child likes to be picky about food (picky eater).

Here are some tips you can do to make sure the nutrients your child needs are:

• Be a good example for children in eating healthy foods.
• Create a food menu every day so that children are not bored and interested in eating.
• Serve food at the right time, when he is hungry.
• Encourage children to cook together in the kitchen so they can learn to appreciate the food that is served for them.

Adequate nutrition intake of children can reduce the risk of children to contract various diseases, including COVID-19. Although the tips above seem easy to do, in fact the drama when giving food to children is still there. When you experience it, be patient and don't despair, Bun.

In addition to giving him healthy food every day, also teach your child about preventive measures so as not to be exposed to the Corona virus, such as regularly washing hands with soap and running water, staying at home to play and learn, and keep a distance with family members or people who are sick.

One more thing that you cannot forget, keep completing the vaccination for your child on schedule. If you have questions about child nutrition during a pandemic, don't hesitate to ask your doctor. You can chat with your doctor on the ALODOKTER application or make an appointment for consultation and immunization with a doctor at the hospital through this application.

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