Trends in Nutrition for Today’s Children

Trend data suggests that changes in eating patterns are correlated with increases in childhood overweight and obesity. In general, children and adolescents are consuming more food away from home, snacking more frequently and consuming more sugary beverages.


These nutritional choices are led mostly by the convenience and seeming economical nature of fast food. Between the 70’s to the 90’s there was an increase of 32% in food prepared and consumed outside the home in children, which translated to a increase to 243 additional calories, mainly in adolescents. In addition, calories from snacks increased by over 120 calories and portion sizes of salty snacks increased 60%. Soft drink portion sizes increased by 63%. By the 2000’s whole grains only occupy 12% of total grain consumption in children and potatoes make up 56% of all vegetable portions. Healthier options, like green and orange vegetables, rich in vitamins and anti-oxidants, make up only 12%.


Aside from making the wrong choices, many studies indicate that children are not eating the even getting the recommended servings of foods shown in the USDA food pyramid. Only 21% of young people eat the recommended five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Soda consumption is also on the rise. Thirty-two percent of adolescent girls and 52% of boys consume three or more servings of soda per day. Combined with the decline in milk consumption, this is having a devastating effect on the health of American children.


Parents should encourage their children to consume less snacks and sugary drinks by providing a model of good nutritional behaviors and keeping their pantries stocked with healthier choices for their children. Studies have shown the increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, leads to a lower, healthier body mass index in children.


By helping yourself be healthier, you can give better guidance to your family!