Cutting down the risk factor in food

The tips given below are relevant not just to the nutrients mentioned in this article, but to nutrition in general

• When introducing a new food or supplement to your child’s diet, do check with your child’s healthcare professional that it doesn’t interfere with the medication prescribed.
• There are streams of medicine that offer alternative methods of treating your child’s symptoms. Do insist on a complete list of ingredients and share them with your medical practitioner to rule out a clash with prescribed medication.
• Your child could be allergic to foods or some medicines. You may find out that he or she is allergic to the very foods that promise to make him feel better. Get an understanding of his or her food allergies and how to manage them, and use these as pointers while planning meals or snacks.
• Keep in mind the hazards of sugary treats, artificial flavours and colours, pesticides and artificial ripening methods used on our food. The world wide web has a wealth of information on this topic.
• Be aware of salicylates. These are naturally occurring, chemical compounds found in most parts of the plant body. Since they protect against infections and pests, They have a toxic component, which is perfect for protection against infections and pests, but not for human beings! Salicylates sometimes accumulate in the body to cause behavioural problems, restlessness and inattentiveness. Salicylates are also believed to trigger allergies.
• Most importantly, use your judgement while following this or any other advice. No one knows your child better than you do!