Low-Income Babies Are Slimming Down

The percentage of overweight babies in poor families in the US may be declining, a new study suggests. Researchers found that fewer babies enrolled in the WIC program had a high "weight-for-length" in 2014, when compared with 2010. The percentage went from 14.5% to just over 12% in that period. High weight, even in infancy, has been linked to an increased risk of obesity later on, the study’s author said.

Changes to the WIC program are one likely reason the picture improved. During the study period, the program's food allocation package was revamped to fall in line with federal dietary guidelines, as well as infant feeding recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics. These changes resulted in increased consumption of whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

Source: Healthy Day, 12/13/16, Slimming Babies