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The TV Diet

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By: By Health Day

Story Updated: May 22, 2012

More candy. Does increased TV time encourage poorer eating choices in kids.

When kids sit down in front of the TV, one hand may pick up the remote while the other reaches for an unhealthy snack.

In a new study from the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, researchers wanted to learn more about the links between TV and eating habits in young people.

They talked to more than 12,000 fifth- through 10th-graders.

Young people who spent more time in front of the television ate less fruit, less vegetables, and more candy and fast food. They were also more likely to skip breakfast, thus missing out on an important chance to fuel their bodies for the day.

Parents can help their kids and teens make healthy choices by:

* Putting limits on TV time

* Providing fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious snacks when the TV is on

* And stocking up on breakfast foods that are healthy and ready-to-go for kids who are in a hurry before school

I'm Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV, with the news that doctors are reading; health news that matters to you.

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