Health Blog

Childhood and adolescence are formative years. They represent a time of rapid growth and development when individuals experience high rates of physical growth and neuronal plasticity, develop their identities, and establish behavioural patterns, all of which have the potential to enhance or diminish physical and mental health and wellbeing.

Evidence indicates that appropriate nutritional intake during these sensitive and crucial periods is essential in supporting normal growth, development, and aging and reducing the risk of chronic non-communicable disease. Indeed, food can be our greatest ally for good health.

Research has also shown that behaviours and habits established in childhood and adolescence, including dietary intake habits, often continue to track into later life and commonly recur across the lifespan. Positive and negative experiences during these periods of the lifespan can have a cascading effect on all areas of development.

So, as parents and caregivers we want to get this right! But what does ‘the right diet’ look like?

Children and adolescents have unique nutritional needs. Feeding children in the early years can be a source of confusion for parents and caregivers, as there is an abundance of often conflicting information and opinions available. This can lead to parents and caregivers feeling overwhelmed and unsure of the right approach for them and their families.

This is where working with a nutritionist can be an excellent way to support the healthy growth and development of your little ones. A nutritionist can provide expert guidance on how to design a healthy eating plan that meets individual needs and preferences, while also ensuring that essential nutrients are not overlooked.

Children and adolescents have unique nutritional needs, and a nutritionist can help to ensure that these needs are met through a balanced and nutrient-dense diet. They can also help to identify any potential nutrient deficiencies or imbalances that may be impacting health, and recommend dietary adjustments or supplements as needed.

In addition to providing guidance on healthy eating, a nutritionist can also help to establish healthy eating habits and attitudes toward food that can last a lifetime. This can include strategies for meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking, as well as tips for managing picky eaters or addressing food allergies and sensitivities.

They can provide valuable support for families looking to promote optimal health and well-being for their children and adolescents. With expert guidance and personalized recommendations, parents can feel confident that they are providing the best possible nutrition for their growing children.

Here at Springbank, Dr Bujtor helps to do all of that! Dr Bujtor is a is an experienced, university-qualified,  registered nutritionist (RNutr), specialising in human nutrition across the lifespan. She is also a paediatric feeding specialist, focussed on paediatric feeding disorders. 

Dr Bujtor strongly believes that food can be our greatest ally to optimal health and that what you choose to put on your plate is one of the most important health decisions you can make!

Whether you have concerns about your child’s picky eating habits, want to ensure they’re getting all the necessary nutrients for their growth and development, or need guidance on introducing solid foods, managing reflux or a newly received food allergy diagnosis, Dr Bujtor can assist. Her collaborative, science-led and education-based approach, coupled with her warmth and empath gives parents and caregivers the tools and support to navigate a range of nutritional issues.