5 Steps to Nutrition: The AAP Suggests a Whole-Diet Approach! by Donna John

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is urging families to take a broader approach to nutrition and consider the whole diet. The policy statement recommends a five-step approach: 

• select foods from all five food groups
• offer a variety of food experiences
• avoid highly processed foods
• use small amounts of sugar, salt, fats and oils with highly nutritious foods
• offer appropriate portions

“No ingredient should be banned. A small amount of sugar or fat is OK if it means a child is more likely to eat foods that are highly nutritious,” says Dr. Robert Murray, author of the statement.