According to the new book “Eat This, Not That!” by David Zinczenko and Matt Goulding,  the average kid today consumes 180 calories more a day compared to kids in 1989. People wonder where all of those extra calories go,unfortunately with the sluggish inactive lifestyle that many of todays youth have, they turn into some pretty staggering health consequences.

For example, only 2 percent  of children between the ages of two and 19 are getting their five main recommendations for a healthy diet (laid out in the USDA’s Food Guide Pyramid). What’s worse, a study of 4,000 children of that same age group showed that the overwhelming bulk of their nutrients come from fortified cereals and fruit drinks. And 25 percent of kids’ vegetable intake comes from french fries. If kids are relying on Frosted Flakes, Hawaiian Punch and the deep fryer for their nutrients, then we know there’s a problem.

The best thing about this book is that it acknowledges indulgence and a tendency to eat out instead of in. They don’t say “Don’t eat out!” Instead they tell you the best way to indulge without going overboard. This is a book that recognizes American eating habits and then gives us the option to choose something healthy. It is a great reference guide and eye opener for all parents who are trying to be more proactive in what their families (and Children specifically) are eating.

This book seems to be catching a wave since I first heard of it on  the mns.com web site ( http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/23503078/?pg=4#TDY_MH_Kids  ) I then decided to check it out at my local book store. When going to Barnes and Noble this book had a list of buyers with this on order. To read more on what this book is about or to order a copy for yourself you can visit www.barnesandnoble.com (search words: Eat this Not that).