Question

Michael is a 2 year old boy who is overweight. His parents complain that he is a picky eater. He doesn’t like vegetables, but will eat fruit occasionally. His daycare providers report that he often seems to be suffering from fatigue, irritability and he has been having some behavioral issues. His mother has had to take time off from work recently because he is frequently sick as well. She consults your advice on whether or not his issues may be diet related.

According to Michael’s parents, this is a “typical” day of eating for him:

Breakfast	Lunch	Dinner	Snacks / Beverages
1 bowl of cereal (fruit loops or frosted flakes) with whole milk	Peanut butter & jelly sandwich Banana or grapes	(Varies) – some type of meat and starch *Sometimes won’t eat	Pretzels Graham crackers Raisins
Beverages	4-5 sippy cups of 100% juice 4 (8oz) bottles of whole milk, including at bedtime

Answer and discuss the following:

1. What is the most likely reason that Michael is overweight?
2. What suggestion would you give his parents to help Michael slim down and be healthier?
3. What nutrition problem(s) might Michael be currently suffering from?
4. If Michael's diet does not change, what health/nutrition problems might he develop in the future?

Answer 1

#. The most likely reason that Michael is overweight is the overeating mostly carbs and physical inactivity .

#. The suggestion that would be givem to his parents to help Michael slim down and be healthier are :-

- Encourage the child in physical activity

- Decrease amount of carbohydrates

- Encourage and advice for a Balanced diet

#. The nutrition problem(s) Michael might be currently suffering from is overweight .

#. If Michael's diet does not change, the health/nutrition problems develop in future are like :-

- diabetes

- obesity

- hypertension

- cardiovascular disease