Can Kids Benefit from Step One Foods?

Kids need the same nutrients that adults do, just in different quantities. Children can benefit from the therapeutic levels of fiber, omega-3, phytosterols, and antioxidants in Step One Foods.

Statistics show that less than one percent of children consume an ideal diet, the number actually rounds to ZERO.[i] It should be no surprise then that more than one third of children and adolescents are overweight or obese.[ii] Childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents in the past 30 years.[iii] Children are consuming too many calories without necessary nutrients.

Obesity often leads to high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Historically, cardiovascular disease in children has been rare, but a study published earlier this year by Thomas Seery, pediatric cardiologist at Texas Children’s Hospital and assistant professor at the Baylor College of Medicine, in Houston tells a different story. More than 30% of the 12,000 9 to 11- year-olds tested showed “borderline” or “abnormal” levels of cholesterol.[iv]

Evidence suggests that atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) begins in childhood. Healthy life choices like exercise and a balanced diet can significantly prevent and reduce the possibilities of developing cardiovascular issues in adulthood.

Step One Foods products do not contain chemicals, additives, flavorings or colorings. They are not only okay for children to eat but they are good for children to eat.

References:

[i] National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009 to 2010.

[ii] Ogden CL, Carroll MD, Kit BK, Flegal KM. Prevalence of childhood and adult obesity in the United States, 2011-2012. Journal of the American Medical Association 2014;311(8):806-814.

[iii] National Center for Health Statistics. Health, United States, 2011: With Special Features on Socioeconomic Status and Health. Hyattsville, MD; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; 2012.

[iv] Seery, Thomas. Lipid Profiles Performed at the Time of Routine Physical Examinations in 9-11 Year Olds within Texas Children’s Pediatric Associates Primary Care Pediatric Clinics. In American College of Cardiology. April 2014. http://content.onlinejacc.org/article.aspx?articleid=1855683