As a parent, it’s important to make sure your children are fed healthy, nutritious foods. Knowing which foods to keep out of their diet can be just as important as understanding what they should be eating. This article will discuss which foods should be avoided when feeding children.
Contents
Sugar-Sweetened Beverages
Sugar-sweetened beverages are drinks that are high in sugar, such as soda, energy drinks, flavored milk, and fruit juice. These drinks can cause health issues such as weight gain, cavities, and diabetes. Water and low-fat milk are better options for children.
Processed Meats
Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, hot dogs, and lunch meats, are high in salt and preservatives. These meats can cause weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. Lean meats, such as chicken and fish, are better options for children.
White Breads and Pastas
White breads and pastas are made from processed grains, which can cause blood sugar spikes and leave your child feeling hungry soon after eating. Whole grain breads and pastas are better options, as they are higher in fiber and nutrients.
Chips and Salty Snacks
Chips and salty snacks, such as pretzels and popcorn, are high in calories and very low in nutrients. These snacks can lead to weight gain, as well as high blood pressure and heart issues. Low-fat crackers and popcorn are better options for children.
Fried Foods
Fried foods, such as chicken nuggets, French fries, and mozzarella sticks, are high in fat and calories. Eating too much fried food can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Baked or grilled foods are better options for children.
Sweets and Candy
Sweets and candy, such as cakes, cookies, and ice cream, are high in sugar and calories. Eating too much of these can lead to weight gain, cavities, and diabetes. Low-sugar options, such as yogurt and fruit, are better options for children.
High-Fat Dairy Products
High-fat dairy products, such as whole milk, cheese, and ice cream, are high in saturated fat and cholesterol. Eating too much of these can lead to weight gain, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Low-fat dairy products, such as skim milk and low-fat cheese, are better options for children.
Trans Fats
Trans fats, which are found in many processed and fried foods, can increase the risk of heart disease. Foods that contain trans fats include margarine, crackers, chips, and fast food. It’s best to avoid these foods when feeding children.
Foods with Added Sugars
Many processed foods contain added sugars, which can lead to weight gain, cavities, and diabetes. Foods with added sugars include granola bars, cereals, and flavored yogurts. These foods should be avoided when feeding children.
It’s important to avoid certain foods when feeding children. These foods include sugar-sweetened beverages, processed meats, white breads and pastas, chips and salty snacks, fried foods, sweets and candy, high-fat dairy products, trans fats, and foods with added sugars. By avoiding these foods, you can help your children stay healthy and happy.