Why is minerals important?
Minerals cannot be made by the body and must come from the diet. Iron, zinc, calcium, and phosphorus are among the most important minerals for growing children.

Iron
Iron plays a part in many processes inside the body, including carrying oxygen in the blood. Because toddlers' physical and mental development is so rapid, their need for iron is greatly increased.

Zinc
Zinc is necessary for the body's hormones and enzymes to perform their functions. Zinc is also related to children's ability to grow.

Calcium and phosphorus
Calcium and phosphorus are necessary for proper bone growth. Research shows that children need to have the right amount of calcium in their diet to lessen the risk of accidental bone fractures later in life.

What quantity of minerals do toddlers need?
Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for minerals have been developed by US and Canadian scientists for various life stage groups, including children. If minerals are consumed at the recommended levels, nearly all children should be able to meet their nutritional needs.

Other countries may have their own systems for recommendations.

What kind of minerals are best?
Iron-rich foods include lean red meats, turkey, eggs, lamb, and fish and seafood. Iron is also found in beans, broccoli, spinach, and dried fruit.

Zinc is found in meat, fish, poultry, and dairy products, as well as whole grains, dried beans, and nuts.

Calcium is found in milk and dairy foods, broccoli, and tofu (bean curd).

Phosphorus is found in dairy products, egg yolks, meat, poultry, fish, and legumes.

Fortified growing-up milks, such as PROGRESS GOLD, can help meet mineral needs during early childhood. Used as a complement to solid foods, just 2 servings per day of PROGRESS GOLD provide a significant percentage of most minerals to help prevent deficiencies.

Reprinted with permission from Wyeth Nutrition