Mighty Smart

Article review in What's New Newsletter Volume 30

Proper nutrition is essential for infants and children.  Children and adults alike are tempted by the onslaught of the fast food industry with the offer of quick and easy meals for children.

A study by the American Dental Association revealed that half  of all parents surveyed thought their children were buying healthy foods at school; but only 36%  of children were actually eating healthy foods at school.  The USDA reports that only 1% of children between the ages of 2 - 19 years old met all of the dietary recommendations outlined the Food Guide Pyramid.

Since teaching good eating habits at an early age is essential, families should practice eating balanced meals with plentiful fruits and vegetables.  Also to avoid future problems, children by age two should begin eating a diet that is moderately low in fat.  Also sugar intake should be monitored and kept to a minimum. If children aren't getting all the vitamins and minerals required daily from their diet proper supplementation with high quality supplements are essential. 

A report from the USDA also started that 85% of chldren eat fewer than the daily recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. This means only 15% of American children are receiving all the vitamins and minerals they need for proper development.  The CDC reports that 36% don't exercise at all during the day. 

It is important to keep your child active and teach them to eat balanced meals with proper supplementation.