Childhood Nutrition

by Dr. Robert Swain

Today we will discuss nutrition for children ages 2-12. Childhood obesity rose drastically in the 80's and 90's -  doubling and tripling in some age groups. 16.9% of U.S. children and adolescents were considered to be obese,  with prevalence higher in teens than preschoolers and higher in males than females in 2010.

Current statistics show the rate has stabilized, but is still alarming. Obesity is defined by body mass. Studies have shown that American children do not consume foods that are consistent with current dietary guidelines.

Most children's diets exceed the recommended intake of solid fats and added sugars and are not meeting the  necessary intake of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and dairy products. Also the energy balance of children needs to improve. This is the energy intake compared to the energy output. Age-appropriate energy and nutrition intakes are essential to support normal growth and development and to prevent acute nutrition problems. These include iron deficiency anemia and dental caries (cavities).

Healthy eating and proper physical activities help promote learning and academic success. Proper eating and exercise can also reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type two diabetes, cancer, obesity, and osteoporosis.

One of the causes in childhood obesity is larger portions, served both at home and away from home. Soft drinks and pizza were the biggest increases. When children ate meals with there families. they tended to eat more fruits and vegetables vs. fast foods.

Food intake away from home increased from 23.4% in 1977 to 33.9 % in 2006. Fast foods were found to be the number one supplier of nutrition.

Types of food consumption among children has also changed. Milk consumption has dropped from 84% to 77%. Flavored juice increased to nearly 50% in some studies. Sugar sweetened drinks increased 60% in 6-11 year olds.

Skipping breakfast is another problem when talking about health. It is estimated that 20% of children skip breakfast. Surveys have shown that children who skip breakfast were more likely to have performance deficiencies.

As parents you need to instill good eating habits at home and in their school lunches. Good exercise programs are also need to begin at an early age.

No - tossing and turning at night is not classified as exercise.

If you would like more information on this subject contact me at . Thank you and stay well.