Dr Tounian: “If we limit the child, we spoil the pleasure”
Professor Patrick Tounian tells us about his views on the menus offered to children in restaurants …
Are children’s menus too high in calories?
In each children’s menu offered in restaurants, we can note deficiencies, but this should not become delusional. When we go out to eat, the main thing sought is pleasure. If we limit it, we spoil the fun. For example, the parent should not force his child to take a fruit for dessert to rebalance the dish. It is about punishment, not nutrition. In addition, the five fruits and vegetables per day are applicable only in adults and “no scientific study proves the real benefits in children”. For the nutritional balance of the little ones, only one fruit and vegetable per day is sufficient.
Should parents worry about the quantity?
A child who goes to restaurants will often eat more. There is nothing to worry about since the food balance is done over several meals. As for the problem of overweight, it should be known that a child becomes obese only if he is predisposed to become fat.
Daily caloric needs of children
3 to 6 years | from 1300 to 1600 calories per day |
6 to 9 years | 1800 to 2000 calories per day |
Up to 12 years | from 2100 to 2300 calories per day |