Dietitians of Canada

Healthy eating and healthy weights for children

Background

Healthy eating is a vital part of normal growth and development for children. In Canada, rates of obesity among children and youth ages 2 to 17 are on the rise. In 1979, 3% of children and youth were obese. By 2004, 8% were obese. An additional 18% of Canadian children and youth are overweight.

No single factor can reverse the obesity trend – social, environmental economic, cultural and biological factors all play a role. Dietitians work in many settings with families, communities and other professionals to help children:

• Enjoy healthy eating as a normal part of childhood
• Attain nutrient and energy needs to support healthy growth and development
• Develop, a positive body image, and high self esteem
• Support the development of healthy food behaviours, including cooking and shopping skills
• Enjoy at least 60 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity daily
• Limit sedentary behaviours
• Develop supportive environments that make healthy choices the easier choice