All parents know that in order for children to grow healthy and strong they have to eat. In particular, they have to eat nutritious food while steering clear of anything processed and sugary.
But when it comes to food, feeding toddlers more than they should, whether these are healthy food. It will still lead to unnecessary weight gain, something that nutritionists are growing increasingly worried about.
Parents are overfeeding their kids!
In fact, according to a new study by the Infant and Toddler Forum, 80 percent of parents overfeed their children.
A survey involving 1,000 British parents revealed that 79 per cent routinely give their children meal portions which are larger than recommended by scientists.
Said a report in the Telegraph: “The forum released an illustrated guide to portion sizes and a food tracker alongside its #rethinktoddlerportionsizes campaign, showing parents precisely how many spoonfuls or slices they should be serving at mealtimes.”
As per the guidelines, for children between one and four-years-old, no more than five tablespoons of pasta, five tablespoons of rice or four tablespoons of mashed potato should be consumed.
It also warns against parents letting their children eat too any raisins and cornflakes throughout the day because of their high sugar content.
If your child is gaining weight safely and gradually, that is perfectly healthy
Similarly, chocolates and other sweet treats should be given to children strictly one a week.
As for meat, toddlers are recommended to be given only processed ham, sausages and minced meat, while fresh fish and eggs should be given in reasonable portions.
Photo credit: The Infant and Toddler Forum / Independent
In an Independent story, paediatric dietician and member of the ITF Judy More cleared the air.
“We felt it was time to put out some clear information,” she said. Adding, “So parents feel more confident with what portions they are giving their children.”
Photo credit: The Infant and Toddler Forum / Independent
“A big part of this has been reassuring parents that they are in fact feeding their children enough, as this has emerged as a major concern for them. The portions we are suggesting date back to a time in the 1990s, when childhood obesity was not such a problem as it is now.”
“We always say to parents, if your child is gaining weight safely and gradually, that is perfectly healthy. And you should always allow them to eat to their appetite,” the expert says.
Sources: Telegraph
Also read: Dealing with toddler food strikes- tips for mums and dads