Kids Eating Patterns Show Striking Changes  

Meal patterns among children have undergone striking alterations over the past two decades, but changes in kid’s meal patterns during that time may not be related to trends toward increased weight among children, according to a recently published U.S. study.

Researchers analyzed dietary intakes from more than 1,500 children who participated in the Bogalusa Heart Study in Louisiana from 1973 to 1994. Among other findings, the researchers discovered :

• Between 1973-1974 and 1993-1994, the percentage of children eating a school lunch declined significantly (from 89.7 per cent to 78.2 per cent); and eating dinners prepared outside the home jumped (from 5.4 per cent to 19 per cent).
• The number of children who consumed five or more snacks in a day went from 30 per cent in 1973-1974 to 8 percent by 1993-1994.
• During the same period, the number of kids who limited themselves to one or two snacks per day went from 25 per cent in 1973-1974 to 52 per cent in 1993-1994.
• The researchers say they found "no associations ... between meal patterns and overweight status in children." They add that further research is needed to better understand the impact of dietary intakes on the increasing numbers of children who are overweight and at risk for obesity.

It remains important to focus on children’s and young adults’ meal patterns and their relation to overall dietary quality. This study reminds parents, schools and health professionals to teach the benefits of good nutrition in both our schools and homes.

For more information about nutrition, visit HealthyOntario.

HAMILTON (May 2004) – The McGuinty government is improving access to mental health services by providing $16 million to the St. Joseph’s Healthcare’s Centre for the redevelopment of its Centre for Mountain Health Services site, Health and Long-Term Care Minister George Smitherman announced.

"This investment will benefit people with mental illness who rely on St. Joseph’s Healthcare for quality, specialized care," Smitherman said. "We are making real, positive change by investing in services that will improve the quality of life and care of people with severe mental illnesses."

The redevelopment of the regional centre for Mountain Health Services site brings a range of mental health services together under one roof, and expands services available to treat people with mental illnesses.

"Our government recognizes invisible disabilities such as mental illnesses that affect many Ontarians," said Dr. Marie Bountrogianni, Minister of Children and Youth Services, Minister of Citizenship Immigration, and MPP for Hamilton Mountain. "The redevelopment of the Centre for Mountain Health Services will result in a strengthened role for the hospital as a leader in providing the right support for people with mental illness."

Judy Marsales, MPP for Hamilton West said: "This is welcome news because it will enable people with mental illnesses to receive the care they need close to home. This investment will ensure a bright future for the Centre for Mountain Health Services."

Approximately one in five Ontarians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime.

"This grant will mean that people with severe mental illnesses will be able to get the help they need sooner, in facilities that contribute to their recovery," said Kevin Smith, CEO, St. Joseph's Healthcare.

"Our government is investing in better services to make health care more responsive and accessible to all Ontarians," said Smitherman.

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