Where do poor eating habits developed in childhood lead?

Short-term

Childhood obesity is an increasing problem, with an estimated 1.5 million people in Australia under the age of 18 considered overweight or obese.  In the ten-year period from 1985 to 1995 the proportion of overweight children in Australia has more than doubled and the proportion of obese children has tripled. This occurred in all age groups and for both sexes. Currently, close to 1 in 4 Queensland children are overweight or obese.

Long-Term

Over an extended period, obesity is a contributing factor in numerous conditions, including:
• Cardiovascular disease, which kills one Australian nearly every 10 minutes, affects one in five Australians, and affects two out of three families.
• Diabetes, which is the sixth highest cause of death by disease in Australia, with one in four Australian adults having either diabetes or impaired glucose metabolism.
• Associated illnesses that have been linked to diabetes include; heart disease, kidney failure, eye disease and amputation of limbs due to poor circulation.

What are the Benefits of Healthy Eating?

Short-term

A better nutrient intake overall can:
• Decrease disruptive behaviours.
• Lead to better concentration.
• Increase problem solving abilities, arithmetic and reading ability.
• Help children to develop a more positive attitude to play and learning.
• Reduce the likelihood that children will develop childhood obesity.

Long-Term

The conditions listed above are all largely preventable by developing healthy eating habits and lifestyles at an early age. Reducing these illnesses will lead to more Queenslanders living longer, healthier lives. It will also help to reduce the associated medical expenses that these illnesses typically incur.