Children can distinguish healthy foods. This is according to research conducted in Ireland by a group of researchers from three universities to test the nutrition awareness of young consumers.
The study, published in Appetite, examined the responses of 172 Irish children between the ages of 3 and 5 who were questioned about the healthy or unhealthy nature of common foods. Regardless of their families’ socioeconomic status and eating habits, as well as the amount of time spent in front of the TV, the children demonstrated an ability to recognize foods that are good for their health.
Younger people in the sample show a lower ability to resist the temptation to consume foods and drinks high in fat or sugar. However, the knowledge that such consumption is to be limited is growing.
The research result, according to the scholars, highlights the need to convey the principles of healthy eating from preschool age, with a view to improving diet in the young population, a crucial factor in ensuring balanced growth.
