New study says controlling kids food may not lead to childhood obesity

A new study published in the Obesity Journal indicates that mother's who restrict their child food intake, may not be contributing to childhood obesity. For a while now, it has been a concern that limiting food intake may cause a child to actually gain more weight as they get older. The data is from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development's study of early child care and youth development

This study looked at 789 boys and girls and followed their BMI scores over time. Mothers were asked a series of parenting questions to determine how controlling or restrictive they were with their child and foods. They did not find any correlation with a child gaining weight later on and mothers who were restricting food intake.

Here is something interesting they did find:

• mothers seemed to be more concerned and more apt to restrict food intake for girls (4-7 years old) who were showing signs of being overweight
• mothers were less concerned for their sons (same age) who also had weight gain

Let kids develop a positive association with healthy eating. Help them learn at a young age that nutrition is important and being healthy is fun!

Resources: Daily Health Tips for family- very kid- friendly and fun

Kids nutrition goals and tracking sheets