Can Children Eat Strict Low-carb Meals?

By Dietdoctor @DietDoctor1

Is it dangerous to let children eat strict low carb? Should you eat all your daily calories in one meal if you practice intermittent fasting? And how much fat is too much?

Get the answers in this week's Q&A with Dr. Andreas Eenfeldt:

Can my children eat low carb?

Hello,

I am hoping to have my children ages 13 and 11 eat the meals I prepare BUT I also do want to be to strict. I also want to allow them to have treats.

Can mixing high fat and carbs be harmful to them?

Thank you very much,
Criss

It should be fine. Eating a low-carb meal once in a while should be more than safe for children, it should likely be beneficial for them. Most kids eat more refined carbs than they need, so it should be a good thing to avoid once in a while.

Best,
Andreas Eenfeldt

If I eat 1 meal a day, should I eat the "daily dose" of calories all at once?

Hello doctor Eenfeldt,

When I eat only one meal a day, must I then eat the same amount of calories that I would do in two or three meals a day?

If I eat only one meal a day (eat until satisfied) and this would only count for example 1,400 calories, would this have the same effect as a caloric-restricted diet. Because not eating enough calories can slow down the metabolism. Or should my one meal contain at least the "daily dose" of calories (for example by adding enough fat to the meal).

Thanks in advance,
Eddy


Only eat until you feel satisfied. No need to eat more than that.

Best,
Andreas Eenfeldt

How much fat is too much?

I am eating about 75% or 161+ grams of fat per day. 20 grams of carbs, ie 5% and 85 grams (20%) protein. Most of the fat is made up of butter or cream or coconut oil. I am scared I'm overdoing the fat. Please advise. Thank you.

Irma

Impossible to say as it's very individual, people need different amounts depending on body size, activity, age etc.

If you need that fat to stay satisfied and not hungry after meals it may be the perfect right level for you. If not, reducing the amount may help you lose weight (if that's a goal of yours).

Best,
Andreas Eenfeldt

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