Prue DeAraugoThe Summer Holidays are Here – But don’t forget Children’s Nutrition
December 20th 2008 10:48
The festive season is now upon us. The weather is getting warmer and the kids are on holiday. Traditionally, it is a time of indulgence, which for a short time may not do too much harm but beware.
According to the latest research, children are more likely to gain weight during the summer than any other time. Data suggests that children’s BMI grows three times faster in the summer holidays than during the school year. This may surprise some who feel that school meals are partly to blame for the increase in obesity levels.
Even though school meals may not be the most nutritious, children’s school days are well structured and children only have access to food during break times.
Making sure children eat well during the summer break can be very challenging. Children at home over the summer holidays have access to food all day, and even though the weather is much warmer, they are more likely to be spending their days in front of the TV or computer, being constantly exposed to advertisements for junk food. It is also a well-known fact that people eat more when sitting in front of the TV.
It is up to parents in most cases to limit they types of food available in the house, especially over summer. Encourage the kids to go outside and take a break from the TV or computer. Obviously, this is easier with younger children, but even if your children are in their teens, their eating habits are still dependent on what is available, i.e. the food you buy in the weekly shop.
According to the latest research, children are more likely to gain weight during the summer than any other time. Data suggests that children’s BMI grows three times faster in the summer holidays than during the school year. This may surprise some who feel that school meals are partly to blame for the increase in obesity levels.
Even though school meals may not be the most nutritious, children’s school days are well structured and children only have access to food during break times.
Making sure children eat well during the summer break can be very challenging. Children at home over the summer holidays have access to food all day, and even though the weather is much warmer, they are more likely to be spending their days in front of the TV or computer, being constantly exposed to advertisements for junk food. It is also a well-known fact that people eat more when sitting in front of the TV.
It is up to parents in most cases to limit they types of food available in the house, especially over summer. Encourage the kids to go outside and take a break from the TV or computer. Obviously, this is easier with younger children, but even if your children are in their teens, their eating habits are still dependent on what is available, i.e. the food you buy in the weekly shop.
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