America News Agency

Yiğit stressed the importance of nutrition at every stage of life and said:

"However, it becomes even more important during childhood, when growth and development are rapid. In particular, in developing societies in recent years, a phenomenon called 'hidden hunger' due to inadequate nutrition has been observed more frequently. This refers to a condition where vital minerals and vitamins such as iron, iodine, and zinc are insufficiently supplied to the body. Inadequate nutrition does not only mean eating little or not eating at all, but it also means that the consumed food is low in nutrients."

Not every food has nutritional value

Yiğit noted that the origin of the word "food" comes from nutrition and said:

"Not every food consumed provides nutritional value. Based on this concept, we can say that especially children's favorite foods such as gummy bears, corn chips, biscuits, pastries made with solid fat, and packaged fruit juices have very low nutritional value, meaning their vitamin and mineral content is very weak. Because they do not meet any nutrient needs of the body. They only provide energy. Additionally, it's important not to forget that they have the potential to accumulate fat around the abdominal region and increase hunger even more."

Omega-3 is important for brain development

Hülya Yiğit explained that children have high calorie needs during their growth process and require more protein, calcium, iron, and other minerals, providing the following information about the daily nutrition of children in the developmental stage:

"Children should consume at least 2 glasses of milk, yogurt, or kefir, 1-2 slices of cheese, and a total of 5 servings of vegetables and fruits every day. Especially in this period where iron deficiency is common, it is important to focus on the consumption of animal-derived iron and protein and consume red and white meat. Especially for strengthening brain development and memory, oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, which are a source of Omega-3 fatty acids, should be consumed at least 2 times a week. The consumption of 8-10 nuts, almonds, and dried fruits per day should also not be overlooked due to their magnesium, potassium, and plant-based Omega-3 content."

Nutrition is not just about satisfying hunger

Hülya Yiğit emphasized that nutrition is not only a means of satisfying hunger and concluded her remarks as follows:

"Especially in childhood when the foundations for adulthood are laid, nutrition is even more important. How much and how well children can grow depends on their genetic makeup, but research has shown that inadequately and unbalancedly nourished children cannot reach their genetic potential. In addition, in childhood, due to inadequate nutrition, mental retardation, learning difficulties, vision problems, and common health problems such as dental and gum problems are the most frequently observed."