FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (NewsReleaseWire) May 8, 2010 -- Mead Johnson Nutrition Company's new vanilla- and chocolate-flavored Enfagrow™ Premium toddler formulas have come under fire for their potential to cause childhood -- and even adult -- obesity. According to nutrition researcher and FoodSmart Alliance founder Diana Hunter, introducing sweet, flavored formulas into toddlers' diets is highly likely to set the stage for similar taste preferences throughout life. This, she says, can promote obesity not only in childhood, but also throughout the teen years and into adulthood.

"Many overweight and obese children become overweight adults," states Hunter. "Introducing a beverage that's similar in flavor and sweetness to vanilla or chocolate milk, malts, or shakes -- particularly when it's presented as a main staple in a toddler's daily diet -- creates a dietary pattern that can lead to the consumption of a lot of fat and empty calories down the road. It simply isn't the best nutritional option."

Hunter also warns that cocoa, which is found in the chocolate-flavored formula, may cause health issues including anxiety, stomach upset, and headaches in some children.

"Cocoa contains varying amounts of caffeine, theobromine and theophylline, which can have greater effects on children's developing bodies than those of adults," she notes. "Parents and caretakers should be aware of that."

Hunter further notes that although the toddler formulas contain omega-3 DHA, prebiotics, and other beneficial dietary components, these can also be obtained from other sources. She recommends that parents learn about all available food, beverage, and supplement options and discuss them with their toddler's pediatrician before making nutritional choices.

"The bottom line is that parents have control," states Hunter. "I recommend teaching kids which foods promote good health and which ones don't, and then putting your money where their mouth is. Combine that with making sure they have sufficient sleep, exercise, hydration, and quality time and you provide them with a life plan for good health."

Hunter, who is currently on her "Be FoodSmart" national tour, has made hundreds of public and media appearances across the country teaching both adults and children how to make healthful yet tasty nutritional choices.

For more information visit FoodSmart.org.

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