Family meals can help children form a 'positive relationship' with food
Regular family meals can help children develop a healthy relationship with food, it has been claimed.A recent survey conducted by Onepoll and Youngpoll has shown that around a quarter of children under ten in the UK have dieted in a bid to lose weight.
Mary George, spokeswoman for eating disorder charity Beat, expressed her belief that youngsters can gain long-lasting healthy eating habits from an early age if their parents are positive role-models.
She said: "Eating together as a family from the outset, and providing a well balanced menu as a norm, ensures that food is thought of in a positive light.
"Historically at this time of year we are bombarded with talk of dieting and it's important that this does not permeate through to the children. Children need a good, balanced diet which includes some fat, to help their growing bones."
Ms George added that food education is important to ensure that children eat well in later life.
