Professor Keith Godfrey has urged the Government to place children’s health “at the heart of new policies” as part of a major early years health report.
The Southampton NIHR BRC Theme Lead for Nutrition, Lifestyle & Metabolism is one of several key contributors to The Health and Wellbeing of Children in the Early Years report.
The report, published by The Children’s Alliance, identifies nutrition as a significant area for the Government to reverse what it describes as serious decline in the health and wellbeing of children in the UK.
It is estimated that over 8.4 million in the UK have limited access to healthy food choices. Millions of children under four years do not meet the dietary standard of eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables per day.
Worsened by COVID-19
The report says the impact of COVID-19 has worsened the food security challenge already affecting UK children. It highlights a rise in nutritional problems linked with food insecurity such as under-nourishment, nutrient deficiencies and mental health problems such as anxiety, low self-worth, and depression.
Statistics show that 14% of families with children in the UK experienced food insecurity during the first six months of the pandemic as opposed to 11.5% beforehand.
The earlier the better
It is hoped that by paying greater attention to children’s nutrition from early years, the UK Government can improve future health and wellbeing, avoiding ill-health in later years.
As part of its recommendations, the report calls for a national strategy dedicated to improving preconception, pregnancy and post-natal diets and the feeding of infants and young children.
Professor Godfrey said: “A child’s early years are critical in how their future is shaped. This report brings together a range of evidence to document the challenges and inequalities that our children face. We must ensure that children and their future children are placed at the heart of new policies that will make a real and positive impact on their lives.”
The Children’s Alliance report included contributions from 31 academics, voluntary sector and childcare professionals.