What is the prevalence of overweight among children and ...

[krzymel]

What is the prevalence of overweight among children and adolescents in the U.S., and what are the contributing factors? What are the resulting health and social consequences?

Question 2

When is it appropriate to introduce complementary foods, and how should these foods be introduced into the diet?

[bookworm410]

Answer to Question 1

The CDC estimates approximately 17 of children 6 to 11 years of age are at or above the 95th percentile for BMI. This is 54 higher than 20 years ago. The percentage of overweight children is on the rise in the U.S. The behaviors most strongly linked to weight gain in children are unhealthy eating patterns (consumption of energy-dense foods, fast food, pre-packaged food) and physical inactivity (increased television viewing has replaced physical activity and there has been a decrease in physical education requirements in schools). Health conditions once only common in adults are now becoming more common in childrene.g., type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and elevated blood lipids. Excess weight in childhood is likely to continue into adolescence and into adulthood. An unhealthy overweight child will very likely become an even more overweight, unhealthy adult.

Answer to Question 2

The AAP recommends introducing non-milk complementary foods between 4 and 6 months of age. Start with iron-rich fortified single-grain cereals such as rice cereal. Mix with human milk or formula to achieve a smooth consistency. Once spoon feeding is established, pureed vegetables can be added, then fruits. Add one food at a time, and wait three to four days to be sure the food is tolerated and there is no adverse reaction.

[krzymel]

Thank you!

[bookworm410]

Always glad to help...