be allowed to cover the energy expenditures of the more active child, to safeguard it against becoming malnourished.
To facilitate the computation of the food requirements of children a schedule showing the number of calories per pound of body per day is included on opposite page.
The food requirements are such as to allow of a steady increase in the weight and stature of the child; the rate of gain for normal children should be as follows:
Average Rate of Gain per Week, for Normal Children
| Age Boys | Average gain, Ounces | Age Girls | Average gain, Ounces |
| First year | 3½-4½ | First year | 3½-4½ |
| Second year | 2½-3 | Second year | 2½-3 |
| Third year | 1¾-2 | Third year | 1¾-2 |
| Fourth to eighth year (inclusive) | 1¼-1½ | Fourth to eighth year (inclusive) | 1¼-1½ |
| Ninth to eleventh year (inclusive) | 1¾-2 | Ninth to twelfth year (inclusive) | 1¾-2¼ |
| Twelfth to thirteenth year (inclusive) | 2¾-3 | Thirteenth to fifteenth year (inclusive) | 2¾-3¼ |
| Fourteenth to sixteenth year (inclusive) | 3-4 | Sixteenth and seventeenth year (inclusive) | 1-2 |
The averages just given are for healthy children; those who are underweight for their age and height should show a more rapid increase in weight with an increased food allowance. It must also be remembered that a simple gain in weight is not sufficient evidence of a child’s normality; a freedom from gastro-intestinal disturbances, and a resistance to disease, are equally essential.
There have been tables arranged to show the proper weight for height for boys and girls of different ages (see [appendix]). These are valuable since, by their use, attention is called to the child who is not up to the average. Medical examination of such children frequently shows reason for their underweight, and measures may be instituted which may save the child from a lifetime of poor health.
Dr. Pirquet has arranged a scale (Pelidisi Chart) showing the state of nutrition in children, based upon the sitting height (in centimeters), to weight (in kilograms). See [appendix].
PROTEIN REQUIREMENTS
There is never a period in life in which protein is not needed. During the early years it is essential that the proteins, or at least a goodly portion of them, be obtained from animal sources, milk and eggs in particular; when cereals and legumes (beans and peas) are used to provide for the protein requirements, they must be supplemented by milk or eggs (or both), in order that the growth and development of the child may proceed at a normal rate.