Is Pizza to Blame for Childhood Obesity?
Ok, full disclosure statement: I wrote this blog literally 30 minutes after enjoying every bite of a slice of leftover NYPD pizza! Sure, I’m not a kid… but my family of four did eat pizza every Friday night during my childhood. My mother had worked all week and deserved a night off from cooking and, of course, who doesn’t love pizza night? And I’m sure we all burned off the extra calories over the weekend running around the soccer fields or our block.
Well, apparently, the authors of a new study published this month in the Pediatrics journal are not fans of pizza night. The study found, as explained by the American Academy of Pediatrics, that pizza contributes to higher calorie, saturated fat, and sodium intake among children and teens. In fact, it’s the second largest contributor to calorie and nutrient intake in children’s diets (behind “grain desserts,” like cookies and cake) ─ I personally was surprised that soda and/or sugary drinks didn’t top the list. The report analyzed data for children (age 2-11) and teens (age 12-19): On the days that pizza was consumed, it accounted for more than 20% of their daily caloric intake and overall calorie intake for that day was higher. The authors state that, since dietary counseling is more effective if focused on specific foods rather than overall nutrients, and since pizza plays a prominent role in children’s overall diet (restaurants, school, etc.), pizza should be directly addressed in nutrition counseling and efforts should focus on improving its nutritional content and marketing.
I am always amazed when studies like this get such widespread pick up in the news. Are the authors presuming the majority of parents think that pizza is the most nutrient-rich food option? I guess I just have a little more faith in our Orlando Family Magazine readers. Here’s an addendum to my initial full disclosure statement: I had one slice of pizza before writing this blog, alongside a plate of assorted leafy greens (kale, red romaine, and Bibb lettuce) that I picked moments before from my garden, topped with blueberries and simple oil and vinegar. My point? Though I occasionally (ok… often) consume foods that are far from ‘superfood’ status, I strive to maintain a balanced diet with the “everything in moderation” approach.
Yes, store-bought pizza can especially be greasy when served with full fat cheese and meat. But families can also host their own pizza night with healthier ingredients, such as whole-wheat dough, low-fat cheese, lean/organic meat, low-sodium (or homemade) sauce, and fresh veggies. In fact, my nephew loves the “green pizza,” aka loaded with spinach, and my niece is a fan of “tree tops,” aka broccoli florets. Or perhaps, families can enjoy pizza night at their favorite eatery (without a side of guilt) if followed by a walk around the neighborhood or a living room dance party.
So, do you think pizza is a leading factor to childhood obesity? Or can American families combat the issue of childhood obesity without solely shaming a beloved dish? If so, how?