Fat is an essential part of the diet of growing children. It provides energy, helps keep the body warm, and is an essential part of many cells in the body, allowing them to function. Also, some vitamins like A, D, E and K can only be absorbed by the body when combined with fat. However, after the early years, children should gradually be encouraged to enjoy lower-fat foods. At the most, up to 30% of the calories in their diet should come from fat. Most of this fat will be found in dairy products, and in some of the protein-containing foods, but some will come from treats. Parents need to remember that fat is far more energy-dense than protein and carbohydrate. Because it triggers the sense of fullness more slowly than both protein and carbohydrate, it’s easy to overeat.
