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More and more parents actively seek nutritional help for their very young children at a time when more and more preschoolers some 10% are obese. These two statistics come from different sources the American Heart Association late last year reported that 10% of U.S. children ages 2-5 are overweight, and the Start Health, Stay Healthy program reports increased nutritional interest from parents of young children. As children get fatter earlier, parents become alarmed sooner. “Start Healthy Feeding Guidelines for Infants and Toddlers” also was presented late last year by the American Dietetic Association in Anaheim promoting healthy eating habits from the start of life. The association, in partnership with Gerber Products Co. with an initiative they have labeled Start Healthy, Stay Healthy, determined that help was needed. Why? Because no national dietary guidelines existed for children under 2. There is a huge market awaiting guidance: Information gleaned in preparing the feeding guidelines determined that 9 of 10 moms surveyed want more nutrition information for their children from newborn to age 2. While putting a baby or toddler on a diet is typically harmful (always consult with your pediatrician), bad eating habits can form with the first biteful. Among the challenges: • 50% of the 800 moms with children ages 2 and under who were surveyed did not know daily nutrient requirements, including servicing sizes and dietary variety. • The order in which fruits and vegetables are introduced to a baby’s diet has no health repercussions, yet 72% of moms surveyed believe that pureed vegetables must be baby’s first food. • It takes several efforts to get baby to accept a new flavor, typically. Yet 77% of moms may be limiting a well-balanced diet by giving up after baby rejects a new food six times or less. Among the highlights from the Start Health Feeding Guidelines: • Young children can eat up to 5-6 small meals or snacks a day, but there is little room for poor diet choices since a baby’s stomach is only the size of a fist. • Breast milk or iron-fortified formula provides all required nutrients for about the first six months of life. • A parent’s approach to child feeding is central to an early feeding experience. Food should not be used as a reward, and parents should observe the child’s cues on hunger and fullness and respond accordingly. The Start Healthy Feeding Guidelines are divided into five categories: developmental signs; nutrition know-how; mealtime advice; safety tips; activity guides. To get the guidelines, go to www.gerber.com, as well as the developmental chart. |
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