By Analou De Vera
The Department of Health (DOH)- Calabarzon emphasized the importance of proper nutrition for children as it promotes a healthy lifestyle and prevents diseases.
Department of Health (MANILA BULLETIN FILE PHOTO)
"Adequate nutrition is one of the factors that encourage growth and development of children," said DOH-Calabarzon Regional Local Health Division Chief Dr. Noel Pasion.
Pasion reminded parents on the importance of giving proper nutrition and to develop healthy eating habits among their children during their growing up years.
"As parents, we must provide them with a balanced diet with the right nutrients including three daily meals and two healthy snacks if desired," said Pasion.
"They must be guided on how to prepare nutritious food for their child's physical and mental growth," he added.
Pasion said that malnutrition is a health burden and it "greatly affects" the children.
"When not properly addressed, it can cause various illness and even death," he said.
Pasion added that malnutrition can lead to some health problems such as stunted growth, eye problems, diabetes, and heart disease.
"The food we eat and the nutrients they provide are the environmental factors that influence our growth, development, functional abilities, and health," he added.