From Bananas, Maybe. Peas and Kale? Dream On in The New York Times:
Picky eating among toddlers and preschoolers appears to be widespread. Experts say that about half of all 2-year-olds are picky eaters, and some research suggests that the pattern continues into childhood, findings that seem well supported by the collective whine of frustrated mothers.
Many nutritionists and public health scientists say eating a high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables in childhood is important in preventing diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, obesity and osteoporosis, a position that other experts question. The research on the developmental and long-term health effects of poor diet in young children is scant.
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Researchers say that as onerous as it sounds, parents should expose a child to a food at least 10 times before giving up. Most parents give up after five attempts.
If the battle is staked over vegetables, experts say, give it a rest.
“Many nutritionists and public health scientists say eating a high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables in childhood is important in preventing diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, obesity and osteoporosis, a position that other experts question.”
These experts that question the health benefits of eating a high-fiber diet rich in fruits and vegetables, are they the ones employed by McDonalds, Kraft-Nabisco and Nestle?
Actually I believe McDonalds has taken some pretty strong and meaningful steps nutritionally lately, and we shouldn’t pick on Kraft as they have proven to be a company that will stand up to the religious right (which opposes their small donation to the Gay Games).
Perhaps they were not the best examples on my part, but both of them have sold enormous quantities of unhealthy food.
But for years tobacco companies had ‘scientists’ trying to tell us cigarettes were not harmful and we still have corporation ‘scientists’ saying we don’t need to reduce emissions of mercury or carbon dioxide, and that global warming is a vast left-wing conspiracy.
I’m just wondering how any so called expert could believe that not eating healthy food would not cause health problems, especially among growing children. Billions in profits could motivate a corporation to say that.
I saw a reputable study some years back that showed when small children (at least those in the study) were allowed to snack buffet style without prodding from anyone as to their choices, they naturally selected healthy foods such as raw veggies and fruit over junk food. Maybe if they were being offered carrot sticks, apple slices, and so on instead of McD fare, kids today wouldn’t be eating so many french fries. But of course, I think that was the original point.
Also significant as to which foods children like is the order in which they are introduced. If they are started out on strained fruits before vegetables, they are less likely to accept veggies later. Lets face it, fruit flavors are a lot more tasty and interesting than most veggies. So start them out on peas, beans, carrots, etc., before ever giving them fruit, and you’re halfway there. (There are also fewer allergy problems with veggies than with some fruits when introduced too soon.)