What to eat for children with ventricular septal defect

The dietary focus of children with ventricular septal defect should be on providing comprehensive nutrition to help enhance immunity, maintain normal heart function, and avoid increasing the burden on the heart. It is recommended to choose foods rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, such as high-quality lean meat, fish, eggs, fresh fruits and vegetables, etc., and avoid high-salt, high-sugar, and high-fat foods.

1. Supplement high-quality protein

Children with ventricular septal defects may need extra energy to support growth and body repair, and protein is an important source of nutrition for tissue repair and healthy growth of babies. It is recommended to choose more easily digestible and high-quality protein foods. For example: lean meat such as chicken, beef, deep-sea fish fried salmon, steamed cod and egg steamed egg, etc. Soy products such as tofu and soy milk can also be used as a source of high-quality plant protein.

2. Increase vitamin and mineral intake

Vitamins, especially vitamin C, vitamin A and vitamin D, are essential for repairing heart tissue and strengthening the immune system. For example, fruits rich in vitamin C include kiwi, strawberry and orange; vitamin A can be obtained from carrots and pumpkins; vitamin D can be obtained by getting more sun exposure or supplementing with cod liver oil rich in vitamin D. Calcium and iron intake are also important for children with the disease. Calcium can be supplemented through milk and yogurt, and iron can be supplemented through lean meat, animal liver, spinach and other foods.

3. Control salt and fat intake

For children with ventricular septal defect, excessive salt and fat intake may increase the burden on the heart. It is recommended to reduce processed foods, pickles, instant noodles and other high-salt foods. When cooking, use steaming, boiling and stewing methods, and try to avoid frying or heavy seasonings. Reduce the intake of trans fatty acids and avoid using high-fat foods such as margarine and cream desserts.

4. Increase dietary fiber and maintain intestinal health

Some children may have reduced activity and weakened gastrointestinal function due to heart problems, so increasing dietary fiber appropriately can help maintain intestinal health and improve digestive function. Oatmeal, whole wheat bread, sweet potatoes, apples, etc. are recommended as high-quality sources of dietary fiber.

5. Reasonable arrangement of eating habits

Children may have a decreased appetite due to fatigue, so they should eat small and frequent meals to avoid overeating. Each meal can be reduced in size, and attention should be paid to dietary diversity, so that children can eat as lightly and nutritiously as possible.

When giving children a diet for ventricular septal defect, it is necessary to ensure balanced nutrition and strictly control the intake of salt and fat. If the condition is special or the dietary needs are complex, you should consult a professional pediatrician or nutritionist. Scientific and reasonable dietary conditioning can help children get the nutritional support they need for normal growth and reduce the burden on the heart.