Childhood nutrition.

This review focuses on the research in normative nutrition for children aged 2 to 12, published from 1985 to 1996. The chapter uses a primary prevention framework and the Healthy People 2000 (Public Health Service, 1990) objectives to identify and review those areas relevant for childhood health promotion and nursing practice. Current research demonstrates that food intake in early childhood is causally linked to health-related problems later in life, therefore obesity and cardiovascular research are highlighted in this review. Environmental and societal factors affect the nutritional health of children, thus the contribution of the media, poverty, cultural, and family practices are also reviewed. The chapter concludes with a summary of strengths and weaknesses of the body of research and suggestions for a nursing agenda in the area of childhood nutrition.