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What can and cannot be fed to children in the summer?
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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The heat adjusts not only the regime, but also the diet itself. In the hot months, vegetables ripen in the garden beds, and berries ripen in the forest. However, for the little ones, summer is a serious test for health. Many parents, wanting to pamper their child, buy perishable products, prepare low-calorie dishes, etc., etc. These are common mistakes. You just need to know how summer affects a child's body.
Babies
It is easier for babies to survive the heat, receiving all the nutrients with breast milk. Therefore, it is not recommended to wean them from the breast in the summer. In the hot months, it is best to gradually begin feeding - vegetables grow in the gardens, which means they can already be found in the markets. These products are much healthier than "imported" ones, as they contain more nutrients, so it is better not to buy imported vegetables and fruits.
Dairy products should also be bought at markets if possible, but only from trusted suppliers. Otherwise, the child may be poisoned or get an intestinal infection.
Children from 3 years old
In summer, children spend a lot of time outdoors. They move more and, accordingly, spend more energy. Therefore, children will not be full on vegetables alone.
Nutritionists have calculated that in summer children need to get at least 10% more calories than in other months. Therefore, when the baby comes home from a walk, he should be fed meat, and if it is getting late – fermented milk products.
If a child leaves home for a long time, you can only put things that won't spoil quickly on the road. Otherwise, he may get poisoned.
Diet
In the heat, a child may lose his appetite. Therefore, in order for the baby to eat his portion to the end, lunch should be swapped with an afternoon snack. From 12:00 to 15:00, you can get your fill of fruit alone, but then, hungry after active rest or a midday nap, the child will eat everything you put on his plate.
This summer nutrition regime is recommended not only for toddlers. It is also ideal for primary school students.
[ Drinking regime
Before sending your child outside, put water, compote or juice with a minimum sugar content in his backpack (sweets make you want to drink even more). For long trips, take a 5-liter container of water with you - you may have to not only drink, but also wash yourself.
However, you shouldn't force your child to drink water either. Give your baby a drink only when he asks you to. If the child is silent, offer him to quench his thirst, but if he refuses, don't insist.