Understanding serving sizes and portion sizes

Knowing the difference between a serving size and a portion size can help you make informed choices about how much food to offer your child.

What Is a serving size?

A serving size is a specific measured amount listed on the Nutrition Facts label. The calories and nutrient information shown on the label are based on one serving and are calculated using a 2,000-calorie daily diet, which is a standard reference for nutrition labeling. It is not intended to recommend how much your child should eat.

What Is a portion size?

A portion is the amount of food you choose to serve your child at each meal or snack. The serving size shown on a package may not be the right portion for your child. For example, a label may list 15 crackers as one serving, but the number of crackers you serve should depend on your child's individual calorie needs, age, growth, appetite, and activity level.

Restaurant portions can vary

Restaurant portion sizes are not standardized. A kid-sized hamburger or children's drink may differ in size from one restaurant to another. Likewise, a small order of fries at one restaurant may be the same size as a medium order at another. When possible, ask about portion sizes and whether nutrition information is available.

Suggested portion sizes

There is no single portion size that fits every child. Appropriate portions vary based on your child's age, stage of growth and development, appetite, and activity level. As a general guideline, meals should remain child-sized until adolescence, with portions increasing as children grow.

The information on this page is adapted from nutrition guidance provided by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) through HealthyChildren.org. Parents should always consult their pediatrician for personalized dietary recommendations.

Source

HealthyChildren.org – Portions and Serving Sizes

Click here