Author: Ryleigh Scott (Dietetic Intern)
The holidays are a time for family, fun, and plenty of tasty food. But all of those extra treats and
festive meals can leave some parents wondering how to keep their child safe or on track with
healthy habits during this busy time of the year. That’s where a nutritionist comes in! We can
help your child manage specific dietary needs, even during the crazy holiday season. Here’s
some expert advice on how working with a nutritionist can help your child, and family, during the holidays.
Because the holidays are often centered around all kinds of different foods, it can be a tricky
time for kids with food allergies. Between holiday parties and festive treats, it’s easy to see how
an accidental exposure could happen. A nutritionist specializes in understanding food allergies
and how to create safe, balanced meals that meet your child’s nutritional needs while avoiding
allergens. Here are just a few strategies we are skilled at for keeping kids with food allergies
safe:
Providing allergy-friendly recipes
Nutrition education on reading food labels
Provide alternative snack ideas, allergy-friendly
Nutrition education on food safety
With the help of a nutritionist, you can rest assured that your child still gets to experience the
flavors of the season without the risk of potential allergens.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Sugary treats and extra indulgence are staples around the holidays, and it’s not uncommon for
parents to worry about kids’ weight and overall health during this time. A nutritionist can be a
great partner to have to help support your child’s healthy weight and development, especially
when holiday snacks and festive meals are in full swing. Here’s how we can help:
Create balanced meals
Nutrition education on portion control
Encouraging physical activity
Fostering long-term healthy habits
Tips to Raise Intuitive Eaters
The holidays shouldn’t be a time for stressing about weight. Work with a nutritionist to
continue supporting your child’s growth and development while enjoying the spirit of the
festive season.
Chronic Disease Management
If your child is learning to manage a chronic disease, we can help here too! We provide outpatient medical nutrition therapy for diabetes, GI conditions, Celiac Disease, and more. The holidays can bring added challenges for children with special dietary needs -- deciding what is and isn’t okay to eat. Luckily, a dietitian nutritionist is incredibly skilled in managing chronic diseases, and here is how we can support your kiddo:
Smart food swaps
Nutrition education on food triggers
Tailoring meals to specific needs
Nutrition education on how to manage symptoms
Spend your holiday making memories, not worrying about food! The guidance of a nutritionist
can help make this happen.
Prevent and Manage Nutritional Deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies tend to be common in children, and holiday eating can easily throw a
regular routine. An abundance of sugary sweets and rich, seasonal foods can cause kids to miss out on essential nutrients that support their overall health and development. Nutritionists are knowledgeable about the signs and symptoms of nutritional deficiencies and know what steps to take to correct abnormal levels. We are skilled in:
Assessing a child’s diet
Highlight key nutrients
Providing balanced meal ideas
Encouraging smart snacking
How can a Nutritionist Help a Child?
As the holiday season gets into full swing, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of all
the food, festivities, and fun. With a little help from a pediatric dietitian, you can rest assured that your child’s health and well-being are front and center, even amidst the holiday cheer.
Ready to give your child the gift of good health?
Our team of dietitian nutritionists is here to help children, and families, manage their specific dietary needs. We provide outpatient nutrition counseling in Illinois and MIssouri. Reach out to one of our nutritionists today!
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