NutritionNutrition is central to he

Nutrition

Nutrition is central to healthy growth, disease prevention, and mental health in childhood. In the United States, the Healthy People 2010 database shows that more than 10 years of surveillance, national goals for nutrition in childhood were not met.[4] In addition, survey data show that for children aged 2 years or older, nutrition levels have not improved for grain intake (including whole grains) and levels of saturated and total fat intake have worsened (Table 2).[4] In addition, surveys show that iron deficiency among young children has increased markedly over 10 years, from 4% at baseline to 6%, whereas the national goal was 1%. Lack of progress toward nutritional goals indicates ongoing educational needs in nutrition. Parents/caretakers and children need interventions focused on healthy eating, including reducing fat, increasing whole grains, and meeting iron requirements.[4]