The habits people have in adulthood are often developed when they are young, which is why it’s important for parents to instill good eating behaviors in their children.
According to the 2010 Family Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey by the American Dietetic Association, many children are engaging in the healthy habit of snacking, but their efforts fall flat and they end up skipping meals.
The survey indicates that instead of eating meals such as dinner, children are consuming more snacks to fill themselves. The eating habit is troublesome because children may be missing out on the nutrients they need.
Dr. Katie Brown, ADA Foundation national education director, says the survey highlights other findings in addition to children’s eating behaviors.
“We also learned from the survey that families are interested in meeting with registered dietitians – professionals with the expertise essential to success – who can teach families how to create both snacks and meals rich in those nutrients critical to a child’s healthy growth and development,” says Brown.
Eating a healthy diet may help people live longer and save money on health insurance and life insurance as they are less likely to develop serious, chronic medical conditions.
