Children between the ages of one and three are consuming far too many proteins due in the main to an excessive consumption of cow’s milk, says a study about feeding habits during children’s early years.
Data gathered by researchers showed that Portuguese children consume too many carbohydrate products, while their intake of proteins is more than double the amount recommended.
Pedro Graça, coordinator for a national programme to promote healthy diets, said a large part of the excess proteins was due to the consumption of cow’s milk, which parents usually believe protects their children.
One of the study’s researchers, Carla Rêgo, shared Graça’s opinion saying that although children over the age of 12 months can have cow’s milk in their diets, it is preferable to choose formula milk.
“Infant formulas have lower levels of protein and also include nutrients which cow’s milk does not have,” she explained.
The study also found that the high consumption of energy-rich products in children’s diets is mostly due to sugary drinks.
According to Pedro Graça, approximately 17% of Portuguese children aged 18 months drink soft drinks every day, while desserts are also on the list of ill-advised treats.
“Most of the time, parents give their children sweet foods as an act of affection, in an attempt to make their children happier and more cheerful. It is important for parents and family members to know that giving sweets to children too early is actually detrimental to their development.”
Specialists stress that children’s health is determined during their first 1,000 days (three years) of life. This all-too-short period is crucial to development.
