Child nutrition — or adult indifference?

Abstract

THE DIETS of British children and teenagers are a growing cause for concern. There is already enough evidence supporting the link between diet and heart disease, and early signs of atherosclerotic disease have been found in young people. Children consume more sweet and fatty food than average and are more susceptible to the claims of advertisers and the temptations of fast food. The 1980 Education Act exacerbated the problem by removing the local authority's statutory obligation to provide balanced school meals. Despite all this, nutrition education is rarely directed at children and teenagers. A pro gramme of nutrition education in schools is recommended.