Dr. Swain
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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
morrobaychiro@gmail.com. Thank
you and stay well.
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