-Adequate nutrients within calorie range; choosing more nutrient-dense foods. -Remember that most cholesterol and saturated fat come from animal products, high-fat dairy.
Milk/dairy is so important because it is an excellent source of Calcium. Calcium along with Zinc and Iron are brain foods for children, and recent research shows that kids are not getting enough of these vitamins.
Factors associated with childhood overweight and obesity: social influences, family resources, knowledge and attitudes about diet, frequency of eating and snacking, and genetics.
Ethnic Groups and racial groups include African Americans, Latinos, American Indians and Alaska Natives, and among low-income youth. 16% of youth 6-17 yrs of age lived in poverty in 2006. 17% of youth lived in house holds that were food insecure (lack of access at times to enough food).
SNDA: School Nutrition Dietary Assessment. Most children consume lunch at school, where as 23% consumed breakfast and 40% report at least having one snack at school. Majority of children reported eating breakfast, supper/dinner, and at least one snack at home.
Studies show children have higher school attendance, less tardiness, and fewer hunger-induced stomach aches. Overall test scores are better, concentrate better, and have better muscle coordination. Less likely to be overweight and more likely to get enough calcium.
If you reward with food, this can lead to developing behavior issues with attitudes toward food, and could cause emotional overeating to develop later in life. Eating at the table together allows parents to talk about their child’s day, what foods they like, etc. By serving the appropriate serving sizes for your kids, this will help prevent overeating and getting the variety of nutrients needed. Use child-size dishes and utensils. When kids participate they are more likely to try the foods (from the grocery store all the way to the plate).
Choices are important, but too many are overwhelming. Try again: kids have more taste buds and may be more sensitive to foods and taste. Keep trying to add the foods at a meal time.
Many families do not have a family dinner table. 1/5 meals are eaten in cars, 1/3 children eat fast food daily
If you go with generic brand names, can get the same price but nutrient benefits.