Childhood is an important time nutritionally. Muscles and bones are growing and brains are developing, and supporting these functions with the proper nutrients will make for a healthier child. Avoiding foods that provide little or no nutritional value is also an important strategy to maximize children's overall health and well-being.
Processed Foods
Most processed foods from the supermarket have high amounts of salt, fat and sugar, and are poor choices to feed a child. Processed food refers to packaged foods that are not in their natural state. Read labels to look for high sodium, fat and sugar levels, as well as any ingredients with names you cannot pronounce.
Sugary Breakfast Cereals
Many children's breakfast cereals are high in sugar, and should be avoided. Be a label reader, and look for the amounts of each ingredient per serving. Sometimes manufacturers will list the nutritional profile for a certain amount, and on closer inspection you find that amount is only half a regular serving. Look for "whole wheat" or "wheat bran," on the label, not simply "wheat." Also look for at least 3 grams of protein per serving, and a carbohydrate-to-sugar ratio that is not less than 4 to 1, says AskDrSears.com. If the total carbohydrates per serving equal 28 grams, the amount of sugar per serving should be 7 grams or fewer, which tells you most of the carbohydrate content comes from the grains, and not the added sugar.
Fast Food
Since the 1970s, the number of fast-food restaurants in the United States has doubled, but the number of American kids who eat fast food has increased five times, according to the Agricultural Research Service website. Fast food contributes very little in terms of nutrition, and increases calorie consumption dramatically if eaten on a regular basis. It can also contribute to liver damage, according to ABC News. Too many fats and calories in your body will overload your liver. Fat cells will eventually build up in the liver itself, and cause damage.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant found in coffee, teas and cola drinks that contributes to hyperactivity in kids, according to KidsHealthyRecipes.com. Limit or eliminate drinks that contain caffeine, and replace with a healthier beverage choice, such as water or milk.
Member Comments