What is the basis for the importance of fiber in the diet of a child? Why is it important to monitor the fiber intake for children?

Answer 1

Fiber is often lacking in children's diets due to a marketplace that is flooded with refined, processed foods. Fiber is needed for bowel health and regularity as well as maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels. Fiber ideally needs to come in natural forms: beans, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. These foods contain a mix of different fibers as well as key vitamins, minerals, and healthful plant chemicals, or phytochemicals. Some food products sold today have added fiber and may be useful in boosting fiber to the recommended intake level providing individuals strive for the natural forms first.
Fiber needs for children by age:

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1-3 = 19 g

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4-8 = 25 g

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9-13 males = 31 g

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14-18 males = 38 g

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9-18 females = 26 g

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It is important to monitor fiber intake in children because data suggests consumption falls short in children. As children get older, fiber may be reduced due to decrease in breakfast consumption, increased meals away from home, increase in snacking, increase in fried foods, increase in portion sizes, increase in sweetened beverages, and decrease in dairy products.

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