New Research Challenges Long-Held Beliefs About nuts in Children‘s Diets
Sydney, Australia – Parents may soon be advised to increase, not restrict, nut consumption for their children, according to emerging research challenging decades-old dietary guidelines.despite concerns about their fat content, studies now suggest regular nut intake is linked to modest weight reduction and offers important nutritional benefits for children, even those at risk of weight gain.
For years, Australia’s dietary guidelines have recommended limiting nut intake. However, experts now believe this advice is outdated and should be revised when updated next year. Research, including studies published in Obesity Reviews (https://doi.org/10.1111/obr.13330), demonstrates that even daily servings of up to 100 grams are associated with reductions in body weight and fat mass in adults – a finding researchers believe extends to children.Nuts are a nutritional powerhouse, offering a range of health benefits. They can be incorporated into a child’s diet as pastes or finely crushed for children between three and five years old to avoid choking hazards. Once children reach three to five years of age, a handful of nuts can be served daily.
Experts emphasize the importance of persistence when introducing nuts to children, citing research showing it can take eight to ten exposures before a child willingly tries a new food (https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqy308). Starting with milder varieties like cashews, almonds, or peanuts, and gradually introducing more robust flavors like walnuts or Brazil nuts, can increase acceptance. choosing raw or dry-roasted, unsalted options is also recommended to avoid added oil and salt.Nick Fuller, author of Healthy Parents, Healthy Kids, highlights the importance of incorporating nuts into a balanced diet and offers practical recipes at feedingfussykids.com. He also advises against pressuring children to eat, encouraging tasting and repeated exposure instead (https://theconversation.com/my-kids-only-want-to-eat-processed-foods-how-can-i-get-them-eating-a-healthier-and-more-varied-diet-242764).
