Core Insights - The obesity rate among school-aged children in China is alarmingly high at 19%, indicating that 1 in 5 children is overweight [1] - If not effectively addressed, the obesity rate could rise to 31.8% by 2030 [2] Causes of Obesity - The rapid increase in obesity rates over the past 20 years is attributed to high sugar and fat diets, increased consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and fast food, along with insufficient physical activity [2] - There is a notable issue of "hidden hunger," where children have an inadequate intake of essential nutrients like vitamins A, D, and calcium, affecting their immune system and growth [2] Nutritional Misconceptions - Common misconceptions among parents contribute to children's nutritional issues, such as believing that drinking soup is more nutritious than eating meat, which is incorrect as meat contains essential proteins and minerals [5] - Another misconception is substituting fruits for vegetables, which is not advisable as fruits have higher carbohydrate content and should not replace the need for vegetables [6][8] - The belief that eating less staple food is healthier is misleading; carbohydrates are crucial for providing energy, especially for children's cognitive functions [10] Recommendations for Dietary Improvement - Experts recommend increasing whole grain intake among school-aged children, as current consumption is significantly below recommended levels [11] - Whole grains retain natural nutrients and can aid in growth, weight control, and immune function [13] Impact of Food Rewards - Using unhealthy foods as rewards can create negative eating habits in children, leading to a reliance on high-fat, high-sugar foods for emotional comfort [14][15]