Children two to five years of age will not starve themselves. If, however, a severe decrease in appetite persists for more than a week, or there are signs of illness such as diarrhea or weight loss, consult your health care professional. Offer foods low in fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol A child's goal for total fat intake, including saturated fat, depends upon the number of calories needed. An amount that provides 30 percent or less of calories is suggested for children over the age of two. For saturated fats, it is suggested that the amount provide 10 percent or less of total calories.
Animal products are also sources of all dietary cholesterol.
Offering children less fat from animal sources will help lower the cholesterol, total fat and saturated fat in their diets. Remember that the recommendation is to limit not to restrict total fat intake. Children and adults need some fat intake. Choose lean cuts of meat and trim visible fat. Take skin off poultry.