What are fats- Importance of it and how much is required by kids!

Fats are an essential part of a child's diet and play a crucial role in their growth and development. Fats are a type of macronutrient that provide energy and are important for brain development, hormone regulation, and vitamin absorption.

Importance of Fats for Kids:

• Brain Development: Fats are critical for brain development, especially during the early years of life. The brain is composed of mostly fat, and consuming healthy fats can help improve cognitive function, memory, and learning abilities in children.
• Hormone Regulation: Fats are important for the production of hormones, which play a vital role in a child's growth and development. Hormones help regulate growth, metabolism, and mood, among other things.
• Energy Source: Fats provide a concentrated source of energy that is important for kids, who have high energy requirements due to their growth and development. Fat is a slow-burning fuel source that provides sustained energy, helping children stay active and alert throughout the day.
• Vitamin Absorption: Some vitamins, like vitamin A, D, E, and K, require fat for absorption. A lack of healthy fats in a child's diet can lead to deficiencies in these vitamins, which can have negative effects on their health.

How much fat is required by kids?

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the recommended intake of fat for children between the ages of 1 to 3 years old is approximately 30-40% of their daily caloric intake. For children between the ages of 4 to 18 years old, the recommended fat intake is approximately 25-35% of their daily caloric intake..

Types of Fats:

Healthy Fats: Healthy fats, also known as unsaturated fats, are good for the body and should make up the majority of a child's fat intake. These fats can be found in foods like nuts, seeds, avocados, fatty fish, and plant-based oils like olive oil and coconut oil. Healthy fats have been shown to reduce inflammation, and support brain function.

Unhealthy Fats: Unhealthy fats, also known as saturated and Trans fats, should be limited in a child's diet. These fats can be found in foods like fried foods, processed snacks, and high-fat dairy products. Consuming too much unhealthy fat has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, and other health problems.

In conclusion, fats are an essential part of a child's diet and play a crucial role in their growth and development. Healthy fats, such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, fatty fish, and plant-based oils, should make up the majority of a child's fat intake. 

Unhealthy fats, such as those found in fried foods and processed snacks, should be limited and it is always a good habit to read the back labels thoroughly before purchasing the product. It is important to ensure that children are consuming enough fat to support their growth and development, while also making sure that they are consuming healthy fats that will benefit their health in the long run.

Also, check out importance of various seeds in kids diets