Cultivating Healthy Eating Habits in Children

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Cultivating Healthy Eating Habits in Children Is what you are feeding your child today, helping him or her make wise food choices for tomorrow? Some may instantly say yes to this question, but for many parents this is an unknown. As parents we strive to provide our children the tools they need to succeed in the future. These tools can vary from listening skills, nightly bed routines, and yes, even eating habits. Although some eating habits are inherent in children, there are other fundamentals that play a major part in cultivating healthy eating habits for life. The most important thing a parent can do for their child is to set a strong foundation for future eating habits. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2005) states, “There are at least 34 nutrients needed for growth and normal body functioning.” (Section 1, para. 3) The American Dietetic Association [ADA] (2006) recommends eating foods from the five food groups daily, in order to get these nutrients. Providing these foods to children on a daily basis is crucial, “to ensure a balanced high-carbohydrate, low-fat eating pattern.” (Peterson, 2006, p. 1). The following is an example of what a diet containing the five food groups contains: 6-11 servings of Grains (Breads, Cereals, Rice, and Pasta); one serving = 1 slice bread; 3/4 cup dry cereal; or 1/2 cup rice or pasta, 2-3 servings of Fruits; one serving = 1 apple; 1/2 cup canned or chopped fruit; or 3/4 cup juice, 3-5 servings of Vegetables; one serving = 1 cup raw leafy vegetables or 1/2 cup cooked or chopped raw vegetables, 2-3 servings of Milk; Yogurt; and Cheese; one serving = 1 cup milk or yogurt or 1 1/2 ounces cheese, 2-3 servings of Meat; Poultry; Fish; Dry Beans; and Eggs; one serving = 2-3 ounces of meat; poultry or fish; 1/2 cup cooked beans; or 1 egg . (Peterson, 2006, p. 1). The five food groups provide a strong guide for

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