VEVEY, Switzerland—Children as young as 12 months are developing unhealthy eating habits that many lead to long-term struggles with weight and obesity issues, according to results of a new Nestle Nutrition study presented at The Obesity Society’s annual scientific meeting in Orlando, Fla.
The Nestlé Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study began in 2002 and examined the evolution of children’s diets from birth through to preschool, including sources of calories, key nutrients and snacking patterns. The survey was expanded in 2008 to find out whether the eating habits of young children in America had changed since 2002. More than 3,200 children are included in the survey, making it the largest, most-comprehensive study of the diets and eating habits of infants, toddlers and preschoolers in the United States.
Researchers found toddlers from the age of 12 months and older consumed one-third of their daily calories from snacking between meals. In the United States, 10% of young children between 2 and 5 years old are categorized as obese.
“We’re seeing poor eating habits starting early in life, and they mirror those of older children and adults," said Dr Kathleen Reidy, Global Head of Nutrition Science, Baby Food, at Nestlé Nutrition. “It’s important to establish the foundation for healthy diets early in life when eating habits and preferences are being formed."
The study concluded parents and guardians need better nutrition guidance to help young children develop healthy eating habits from the age of 12 months. Simple dietary changes can make significant improvements in the quality of children’s diets. The researchers suggested parents should consider snacks as “mini-meals" and offer healthy options such as fruits, vegetables, low-fat yogurt and whole grain foods.
