October 3/Florham Park, N.J./PRNewswire -- The latest findings from the Nestle Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study (FITS) were presented at The Obesity Society's annual scientific meeting in Orlando. In the U.S., 10% of young children aged 2-5 are categorized as obese(1). The Nestle FITS data reveals that, as early as 12-24 months, children are beginning to develop some unhealthy dietary patterns that may contribute to childhood obesity. Two- and three-year-olds are falling short of the USDA MyPlate and AHA/AAP Dietary Guidelines for Children. In particular, young children do not consume enough vegetables or whole grains and they consume far too many calories from solid fats and added sugar.
"We're seeing poor eating habits starting early in life, and they mirror those of older children and adults. Parents and caregivers need to know that eating patterns are set early - between 12-24 months. It's crucial to establish the foundation for healthy diets early in life when eating habits and food preferences are being formed," said Dr. Kathleen Reidy, DrPH, RD, head, nutrition science, Nestle Infant Nutrition. "The new findings show how simple changes can make significant improvements in children's diets."