Researchers selected two snack foods typically offered to a group of preschool-aged children in a daycare environment. Children were freely offered both foods during their snack time for several weeks. Then the researchers restricted children's access to one food while providing the other to children in unlimited quantities. Most adults know that foods that are high in fat or sugar and low in vitamins and minerals should be consumed in moderation, but most children do not. As children grow, they need to learn about different foods and how to make good choices.
Structure is as important in child feeding as it is in any other aspect of parenting.
Parents should provide children with a variety of nutritious foods and with enough guidance to help their children make reasonable decisions about what and how much to eat. Healthy eating is not about avoiding specific foods, it's about balance and moderation. This media release is provided by The American Society for Nutritional Sciences and The American Society for Clinical Nutrition, Joint Public Information Committee to provide current information on nutrition-related research. This information should not be construed as medical advice. If you have a medical concern, consult your doctor.