Reducing the energy density of meals to prevent overweight in preschool children

A recent study has shown that reducing the energy density of children's meals may help to prevent overweight and obesity in preschool children.

Thirty six children aged 3-5 years attending a childcare centre participated in the crossover study. During the 2 week experimental period, children were served regular meals ( breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea) at the centre except for 2 days during each week when they were served meals which were either lower or higher in energy. During one week they were served meals containing a mean of 27% less energy ( range 19-33%) than those served  in the other experimental week. The energy density of meals was reduced by decreasing fat and sugar in recipes, increasing fruit and vegetable content and using low fat milks. Dinners and evening snacks were provided but had the same energy density.

The study found that children ate a similar weight of food and beverages over the 2 days regardless of  energy density. This affected their  total energy intake so that they consumed 14% fewer kiljoules during the lower energy period than in the higher. Intakes were similar when regular meals were consumed.

The lower energy density foods and drinks were well accepted by children. Increasing fruit and vegetable consumption and serving familiar foods that children like but with reduced fat and sugar content, are strategies that can be used to moderate children's energy intake and improve the nutritional quality of their diets, without having to reduce the amount of food eaten.

Reference

Leahy KE, Birch LL. Rolls BJ. Reducing the energy density of multiple meals decreases the energy intake of preschool-age children. AmJ Clin Nutr 2008:88:1459-68