Your kid is growing every day. Sometimes you will notice slow growth, but at certain age brackets, the growth is rapid. That period is called the Growth Spurt period. Kids will be happy to grow faster, but along with it comes the pain. Growth & Development Main stages of growth Key macronutrient needs (India-context) Protein requirement (ICMR-NIN 2020): Typical energy distribution recommended for children: Critical micronutrients and roles Nutrient Main role in growth Important food sources Iron Hemoglobin synthesis, cognitive development; marked increase in adolescence (especially girls).  Green leafy vegetables, pulses, jaggery, fortified cereals, meat, eggs. Calcium & vitamin D Bone mineralization, growth spurt support; requirement rises sharply in adolescence.  Milk, curd, paneer, small fish, fortified dairy/non‑dairy, sunlight + fortified foods. Zinc Immune function, appetite, growth velocity; deficiency → stunting and infections.  Pulses, nuts, seeds, dairy, eggs, meat. Vitamin A Vision, mucosal integrity, immune defense; deficiency → increased infection risk and night‑blindness.  Liver, eggs, dairy, orange‑yellow vegetables, green leafy vegetables. Practical nutrition guidelines for Indian children From ICMR-NIN Dietary Guidelines and IAP-type recommendations: 0-6 months 6-24 months 2-5 years 6-18 years What to focus on Simple messages to remember: Other Points in Indian Context Growth and development might not be the only reason for your child’s pains. 1. Vitamin D deficiency 2. Protein deficiency 3. Anaemia 4. Lack of physical activity Final Word This article is for educational purposes and does not replace personalised medical advice.