The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) has recently released its Feeding young children aged 1-5 years report, a summary of which is available here.
The BDA welcomes SACN’s report and its recommendations. It highlights the importance of early nutrition and a balanced intake of nutrients from foods. We support its recommendation of a diversified diet with repeated exposures to a range of flavours and textures with the avoidance of free sugars and added salt. As we know, the early years are when many food habits are formed that can last into adulthood, so its focus on this is important.
The authors found that a higher intake of energy and protein, from large portions sizes, was associated with a higher BMI in young children, as was a high intake of sugar from sweetened drinks. Being aware of portion size is a significant message from the report.
Interestingly, it promotes breastfeeding into the second year of life and states commercial infant and toddler food is not needed, whilst also highlighting that most growing-up milks contribute to excess free sugars intake.
It should be noted however that SACN did not undertake primary research for the report but reviewed available evidence. Current, nationally representative, detailed data is much needed on the nutrient intakes and status of this age group to provide more appropriate guidance to promote the best health outcomes for children. We’d welcome the return of the National Diet and Nutrition Survey to ensure data is reflective of current population feeding patterns, in particular with rising rates of childhood obesity and the cost-of-living crisis.
Dietitians are best placed to help with advice around early years feeding and portion sizes, based on the most up to date scientific evidence. Read the BDA’s Food Fact Sheet with tips for heathy eating for children here.
Comments from the BDA’s Obesity Specialist Group and Paediatric Specialist Group.