Forget calorie counting: Healthy food habits for your child

Two experts tell Sharon Ní Chonchúir how parents can ensure a healthy diet for their child. Watching portion size and the treats are both key

WE appear to be in a constant panic over children and their diets. Earlier this month there was widespread shock at the news that school uniforms with 46in waistlines are now being sold to Irish primary-school children. In Britain, health officials called for calories in popular foods to be cut amid concerns children are consuming too much.

Today, 25% of children in Ireland are overweight or obese. What should worried parents do? Should they try to cut back on their children’s calorie intake?