Poor eating patterns developed in childhood can pave the way for diet-related illnesses in later life, so it is essential that a healthy eating pattern be established as early as possible. A healthy lifestyle adopted as a child can set a precedent for life.

In our fast pace society where time is often a factor, parents may need to turn to packaged foods as an alternative to cooking fresh meals. However recent studies have shown that many of these meals are misleading in nutritional value - loaded with sugar and fat. A government survey* of the diets of pre-school children showed that those eating the most sugar in their diet were likely to consume the lowest levels of many vitamins and minerals. It is easy to give a fussy eater the foods they enjoy but the wider implications can be serious.

As recommended by the government's chief medical officer, a daily complement of vitamins A, C and D is crucial to promote general health and growth, maintain healthy vision, boost the immune system and improve concentration.

* Gibson, 1997