Children’s Eating Habits Depend On Their Parents
Parents have a tremendous influence over how their children eat.
To emphasize this, researchers at Saint Louis University have determined that families who eat out often are more likely to skimp on fresh fruits and vegetables compared to those who eat more meals at home.
After focusing their study on young families in southeastern Missouri, it was found that close to 73% of parents don’t consume the minimum recommended amount of fruits and vegetables each day.
Researchers also discovered that families who eat out frequently are less likely to have fresh produce on hand at home.
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When a parent eats more healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, their children tend to eat more of the same. When more soft drinks, fatty snacks, and processed foods are consumed, children learn these eating habits instead.
By preparing more meals at home, and exposing our kids to a variety of healthy foods at a young age, we can shape their eating patterns in a positive way… for a lifetime.
This is an important topic but you are reporting on a study that was conducted in 2004. Kinda old don’t you think?
We do try our best to get fruits and veggies and good foods. One discussion with my son though, let me know that he doesn’t actually like vegetables, but he eats them because they are good for him…. and because he has to. I decided I was okay with that.
Thanks for your comment Green Luvin’. I feel that with childhood obesity and diabetes at an all time high, this study is worth re-mentioning. Whether ‘04 or ‘09, the bottom line is that as parents we’re responsible for setting a positive example for our children. (Diet and otherwise.)