Question

Child Nutrition Case Study

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 the following questions:

1. What is the most likely reason that Michael is overweight?

2. What suggestions would you give his parents to help Michael slim down and be healthier?

3. What nutrition problem(s) is Michael likely to be currently suffering from?

4. If he continues with his current habits, what health problems would he be likely to suffer from in the future?

Answer 1

1) The most likely reason Michael is overweight is because he eat lots of high calories food such as , processed food eg cereals, frosted flakes. Machine snacks : eg Graham crackers. 2) Suggestions to help Michael slim down and be healthier includes: There should be reduction in the intake of processed foods, fast food , because they are high in calories. Proper healthy meal should be given to Michael. ii) Michael should be encouraged to eat good meals. iii) Michael should drink lots of water and low-fat milk instead of sugary drinks and whole fat milk. iv) natural vegetables and fruits should be included in Micheal diet. 3) The nutritional problem Micheal is likely to be suffering from is childhood Obesity. 4) Health problem Micheal might suffer from includes: I) diabetes ii) high Cholesterol in the body iii) high blood pressure.