Evolving Trends in Eating Habits of Children

Abstract

This chapter examines the concept of programming and emphasizes the adverse consequences of both undernutrition and overnutrition in later life. It underscores the intergenerational nature of malnutrition, which begins in utero and persists throughout one’s life. It also explores the impact of parental attitudes and family circumstances on infant and childhood nutrition. Early intervention strategies are crucial for optimal development, emphasizing the importance of adequate care for low-birth-weight infants, breastfeeding, immunization, poverty reduction, and avoidance of environmental hazards. In early childhood, promoting adequate complementary feeding, monitoring growth, managing wasting, and providing necessary supplementation play significant roles. However, societal influences, such as poverty and environmental hazards, can obscure the effects of suboptimal nutrition during pregnancy and early postnatal life. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated malnutrition issues among children, with disruptions to structured school settings, access to nutritious foods, and physical activity. Additionally, food insecurity has increased, with significant impacts on vulnerable populations. Rising global food prices worsen the situation, particularly in low-income countries heavily reliant on cereals for energy intake. In conclusion, addressing malnutrition in school-aged children requires an intergenerational approach with cross-discipline collaboration to tackle underlying determinants such as poverty, maternal health, education, and household food security.