Smaller bowls reduce food intake in children

WHEN given food in larger bowls, children tend to ask for more, and eat 52% more, according to a Cornell University study published in the Journal of Pediatrics.

Researchers randomly gave 8-ounce or 16-ounce cereal bowls to 69 pre-schoolers. Adults then served children cereal and milk in increments until the kids indicated that they were full. Children with larger bowls requested 87% more cereal and milk – regardless of their age, gender, and Body Mass Index (BMI).

In a second study, with 18 elementary students, researchers used hidden scales embedded within the tables to weigh each cereal portion before and after the kids ate to measure how much they consumed. The kids with larger bowls requested 69% more cereal and milk and also ate 52% more. It is therefore recommended that parents/caregivers who are concerned about children’s caloric intake, serve them meals in smaller dishware.