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Fathers greatly influence their children's food choices

By Staff Writer

Most parents know that they are constantly setting an example for their children. However, a new study by Texas AgriLife shows that fathers may carry more weight in influencing their youths, at least when it comes to their eating habits.

For example, fathers who praise family dinners and see it as a special time to spend with their children are less likely to go to fast-food restaurants instead of eating at home. Therefore, youths will tend to make the same choices when they are older. Similarly, lenient dads who allow their kids to go to a fast-food restaurant whenever they want will create future adults who have unhealthy diets, according to the study.

It may be extremely important for fathers to be mindful of what they are teaching their children in terms of diet, as about 17 percent of youths are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Parents who are concerned about their teens' eating habits may want to consider enrolling them in schools for troubled youths. These facilities can help control similar negative behaviors in children while giving them extra academic support.  

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