Parental Strategies to Increase Calcium Intake in Adolescents
Author Information
Author(s): Reicks Marla, Edlefsen Miriam, Goldberg Dena, Auld Garry, Bock Margaret A, Boushey Carol J, Bruhn Christine, Cluskey Mary, Misner Scottie, Olson Beth, Wang Changzheng, Zaghloul Sahar
Primary Institution: University of Minnesota
Hypothesis
How do parental strategies influence the calcium intake of young adolescents from different racial/ethnic backgrounds?
Conclusion
Interventions to help parents increase children's intake of calcium should focus on food availability, encouragement, and modeling proper intake.
Supporting Evidence
- Parents monitored calcium intake by making calcium-rich foods available and setting expectations for consumption.
- Parents served as food gatekeepers, controlling the availability of foods in the home.
- Parents encouraged children to eat healthily through conversations about food and health.
- Most parents believed their example influenced their child's eating habits.
Takeaway
Parents can help their kids eat more calcium-rich foods by making those foods available, encouraging them to eat them, and showing them how to eat healthily.
Methodology
Qualitative research design using semistructured individual interviews with a convenience sample of parents from three racial/ethnic groups.
Limitations
The use of a convenience sample may not represent the full range of attitudes and practices among the ethnic groups studied.
Participant Demographics
Parents were primarily mothers, with a mix of Asian, Hispanic, and non-Hispanic white backgrounds, and varying education levels.
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