Latest news with #MalikRadixHealthcare
Hindustan Times
15 hours ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Is your child malnourished? Pediatrician shares 5 subtle signs that parents often miss
A child's diet should be a compilation of healthy nutrients. Nutritional gaps in their diet can have long-term effects on their growth, development and overall health. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Ravi Malik, paediatrics, MAMC and founder and medical director, Malik Radix Healthcare said, 'Your child may appear active and healthy, but nutrient gaps can quietly affect their growth, immunity, and focus. Especially in picky eaters, these deficiencies often go unnoticed.' Also read | Is your kid a picky eater? Here are 7 tips to add healthy foods to your child's diet Frequent hair breakage may point to low protein, biotin, or zinc levels. (Unsplash) Dr Ravi Malik further shared the subtle signs of malnourishment in children that parents should watch out for: 1. Low energy and fatigue after play If your child is often tired after playtime, wants naps frequently, or struggles to concentrate, it may signal deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, or protein. These nutrients are essential for maintaining energy and supporting brain function. Watch out for increased sleepiness, lack of focus, or sluggish behavior. 2. Hair loss or brittle strands Noticeable thinning or frequent hair breakage may point to low protein, biotin, or zinc levels. In more severe cases, you might see patches of hair loss (alopecia). Hair health is a reliable marker for nutritional status, especially protein intake. Design a nutritious diet for your child.(Unsplash) 3. Falling sick too often While 6–8 episodes of fever per year are considered normal, frequent colds, slow recovery, or recurring infections can indicate a weak immune system. This could be due to deficiencies in vitamins C, D, zinc, or protein. Watch for patterns of illness, especially gastrointestinal infections or chest infections. Also read | Is your child's diet putting their heart at risk? Essential guide for parents 4. Delayed growth or dental issues If your child is not gaining weight or height as expected or has delayed or chipped teeth, they may be lacking protein, calcium, or vitamin D. Roughly, a 1-year-old should weigh around 10 kg, a 6-year-old around 20 kg, and a 10-year-old around 30 kg. Similarly, expected heights are 75 cm at 1 year, 100 cm at 4 years, and 137 cm at 10 years. 5. Mood swings and poor focus Frequent irritability, anxiety, or poor school performance may be linked to low levels of omega-3, iron, or B-complex vitamins. These nutrients play a key role in cognitive and emotional development. What can parents do? 'Focus on colourful, balanced meals with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lentils, nuts, and seeds. Eggs are an excellent protein source. Encourage outdoor play for natural vitamin D. Avoid over-reliance on packaged health drinks. And most importantly, consider supplements only after consulting a pediatrician,' the doctor suggested. Also read | Power of Indian superfoods: Nutritionist recommends 5 foods to add to your child's diet Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
6 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Want to boost your child's gut health? Pediatrician shares 6 simple food swaps
A child needs proper nutrition in the early years for healthy development, and it starts with the right kind of diet. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Ravi Malik, pediatrician, MAMC, founder and medical director, Malik Radix Healthcare said, "A healthy gut does more than aid digestion, It supports immunity, brain development, and even emotional well-being. The secret? Feeding the good bacteria that live in your child's gut. And it doesn't require a complete diet overhaul; just a few mindful swaps can make a big difference.' Also read | Is your kid a picky eater? Here are 7 tips to add healthy foods to your child's diet Follow these tips to reduce sugary foods in your child's diet.(Shutterstock) 1. Swap sugary cereals for fibre-rich breakfasts Most breakfast cereals are loaded with sugar and offer little nutritional value. Instead, opt for high-fibre choices like dry oats, millet porridge, or whole grain toast. Fibre acts as food for good gut bacteria, helping them thrive while keeping digestion smooth and reducing long-term risks like constipation and even chronic diseases. 2. Swap ice creams and sweets for yoghurt with fruits Instead of sugar-heavy desserts, try plain yoghurt topped with fruits. Yoghurt is rich in probiotics, the good bacteria that support gut health. You can also blend curd with fruits into smoothies or mix in chopped vegetables for a savoury twist. Just be sure to skip added sugars. 3. Swap fried snacks for roasted chickpeas and nuts Chips and fried items offer empty calories and harm gut balance. Try giving roasted makhana, peanuts, or chickpeas instead. These snacks are high in protein, contain fibre, and help support a healthy microbe. Also read | Is your child's diet putting their heart at risk? Essential guide for parents Pay attention to your child's gut health.(Shutterstock) 4. Swap sugary drinks for natural fluids Packaged juices and sodas often contain added sugar and preservatives that disrupt gut flora. Replace them with coconut water, unsweetened lassi, fruit-infused water, or buttermilk. These drinks hydrate and, in the case of fermented ones, add beneficial bacteria to the gut. 5. Avoid harmful white foods Cut down on white bread, maida (refined flour), white rice, sugary biscuits, table salt, and extra sugar. Replace them with multigrain breads, whole rice, and flours like ragi, bajra, jowar, or suji. Whole grains are rich in fibre and help nourish gut microbes. 6. Add fermented foods and high-fibre fruits Add fermented foods like idli, dosa, and kimchi to meals. Encourage high-fibre fruits like apples, papaya, guava, and pears. Garlic and onions also support gut health. And limit junk food and antibiotics, which can disrupt your child's gut flora. Also read | Power of Indian superfoods: Nutritionist recommends 5 foods to add to your child's diet Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
