Meal Plan - Basic Nutrients

Published Thu, 30 Jan 2025 07:12:52 +0000 by admin

Breakfast

  • Calcium and Vitamin D: Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened) with fortified almond milk or cow's milk.
  • Iron and Fiber: Spinach and mushroom omelet (2 eggs) cooked with olive oil.
  • Potassium: 1 medium banana or a handful of dried apricots.
  • Optional: Whole-grain toast or oatmeal for added fiber.

Lunch

  • Calcium and Vitamin D: Grilled salmon (rich in vitamin D) or sardines (with bones for calcium).
  • Iron and Fiber: Quinoa or brown rice with steamed broccoli and lentils.
  • Potassium: Side salad with spinach, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
  • Optional: A glass of fortified orange juice for extra calcium and vitamin D.

Dinner

  • Calcium and Vitamin D: Baked tofu or chicken breast with a side of steamed kale or collard greens.
  • Iron and Fiber: Sweet potato (high in potassium and fiber) with black beans.
  • Potassium: Steamed asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
  • Optional: A small serving of fortified cereal with milk for dessert.

Snacks

  1. Calcium and Vitamin D: Cheese sticks or fortified plant-based milk smoothies.
  2. Iron and Fiber: Trail mix with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.
  3. Potassium: Fresh fruits like oranges, kiwis, or melons.

Key Nutrients and Their Sources

  1. Calcium: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), fortified plant-based milk, leafy greens (kale, spinach), tofu, and almonds.
  2. Vitamin D: Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), fortified foods (milk, orange juice, cereals), egg yolks, and sunlight exposure.
  3. Iron: Lentils, beans, spinach, tofu, quinoa, red meat, and fortified cereals.
  4. Dietary Fiber: Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
  5. Potassium: Bananas, sweet potatoes, spinach, avocados, oranges, and beans.

Additional Tips

  • Exercise: Incorporate strength training, stretching, and yoga to improve posture and bone health.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water to support overall health.
  • Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support growth hormone production.

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