The University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital conducted a poll among 1,083 parents with children aged 3 to 10 to assess their food and diet choices. The poll results indicate that while some parents believe the standard American diet is healthy for their children, a majority recognize its unhealthiness characterized by high levels of saturated fats, added sugars, sodium, and refined carbohydrates. Despite this acknowledgment, most parents prioritize healthy eating habits for their kids. Parents reported limiting certain foods to maintain a healthy diet, with 59% limiting added sugars and 54% limiting processed foods. Encouraging vegetable consumption is a key strategy, with 94% of parents attempting to ensure adequate vegetable intake. Sixty percent of parents serve greens daily, while 41% involve children in vegetable selection or preparation. Some parents resort to inventive methods, with 25% hiding vegetables in food or offering rewards for eating them. Portion control is also crucial, with 69% of parents providing slightly smaller portions than adults. Additionally, 54% of families implement the rule of ‘trying some of everything,’ while 31% prohibit dessert for unfinished dinners. While 71% of parents allow seconds, 21% only permit them after finishing the initial serving, and 6% restrict seconds to healthy food items.
Parents Recognize Unhealthiness of Standard American Diet but Prioritize Healthy Eating for Kids
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