The OzFITS study is the first-of-its-kind Australian-wide survey of infant and toddler feeding practices and food intake. In this podcast, we’re joined by Dr Merryn Netting to talk through the key findings of the study, including Australia’s breastfeeding rates, low iron intakes and an alarmingly high proportion of calories coming from discretionary foods. Merryn explores practical ways dietitians can support parents to strike a healthy balance with snacks and include more iron rich foods in their child’s diet.
Biography
Dr Merryn Netting is an Advanced Accredited Practising Dietitian and NHMRC Early Career Fellow based at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute and the Adelaide Women’s and Children’s Hospital. Merryn is an experienced paediatric dietitian with over 30 years of clinical experience. Her research is focused on the long-term effects of early life dietary patterns, specifically related to prevention of food allergy.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Why the OzFITS Study is unique
- Iron and sodium as key nutrients of concern for littlies
- The impact of snacking on discretionary foods on growth
- Priorities for future research
- How common allergens are being introduced
Additional resources
The Australian Feeding Infants and Toddlers Study (OZFITS)
Two-part webinar series: What Aussie kids are really eating – first results from the OzFITS study
Two-part webinar series: A deep dive into the OzFITS study: implications for health professionals
This podcast is not, and is not intended to be, medical advice, which should be tailored to your individual circumstances. This podcast is for your information only, and we advise that you exercise your own judgment before deciding to use the information provided. Professional medical advice should be obtained before taking action. Please see here for terms and conditions.
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