Debunking Common Child Nutrition Myths: What Every Parent Should Know
Greetings, fellow parents and guardians! If you’re like me, thinking about our kids’ nutrition and health is sometimes a source of frustration (midnight-snack craving and all!). There is so much information floating around, when it comes to kiddo nutrition it’s tough to differentiate myth from fact. Have you ever been told, “sugar makes kids hyper?” Or, “they will only eat their favorite foods?” Let’s explore and dispel with our blog debunking common child nutrition myths!
Myth 1: Sugar Increases Children’s Hyperactivity
Oh, sweet treats! As a parent, I’ve heard more times than I can count that sugar is the exasperating villain responsible for my child’s over caucuses. Well, guess what? Studies have shown there is no correlation between sugar consumption and hyperactivity in children. While there have been many studies done to examine the relationship between sugar and behavior, very few show any correlation between consumption and behavior.
That doesn’t mean you should allow your kids to binge on candy! Moderation is important, of course! Too much of anything sweet, sugar or otherwise, is likely to lead to energy crashes and/or unhealthy habits. Focus instead on well balanced meals and snacks!
Myth 2: Kids Only Need Milk for Strong Bones
Now let’s talk about the most popular source of calcium. Yes, milk is a great source of calcium, but let’s be honest; saying kids can only get strong bones with dairy is a little unfair. There are tons of non-dairy sources! You know, foods such as leafy greens, almonds, tofu, and fortified orange juice can all contribute to a child’s calcium intake. As an added bonus, anyone willing to try a variety of foods may discover food adventures that they may really enjoy. For example, my son absolutely loves snacking on almonds, which I never thought would happen!
Myth 3: If They Don’t Eat, They’ll Starve
I completely understand the pain of watching a child refuse the foods we prepare, but we have to remember that children are born negotiators (they inherit that from us!). Sometimes, they simply aren’t in the mood and don’t want to eat, or sometimes they are holding out for dessert. When you remove the stress around your child’s hunger cues, it can relieve stress on mealtimes.
Establish a rhythm of meals and snacks and allow your child to trust their bodies. I have found that when I stepped back from the pressure at the dinner table, my daughter would slowly start trying foods she used to turn her nose up to.
Myth 4: Kids Are All Picky Eaters
Yes, I understand the difficulties. For every child, picky eating seems like conventionality. The good news, however, is that many children will grow out of their picky eating stage. Also, it’s useful to keep in mind that many kids are reluctant to try a food until they have tried it numerous times. If, for instance, you continually offer a range of vegetables through out the week, you might be surprised at what they eventually like! Have them get involved in the cooking as well! I notice that when my children assist me in preparing a meal, they display greater interest trying a dinner option. Who knew broccoli could taste so delicious in a “family made” meal?
Myth 5: Healthy Foods are Expensive
Eating well doesn’t have to cost you a fortune! While some organic foods can be expensive, you don’t have to go crazy with healthy eating. Seasonal fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, and lentils are all healthy and affordable staples that can form the basis of healthy family meals. Buying in bulk can save you some serious money too (i.e. dried beans or lentils)! I’ve found that meal planning ahead of time is super helpful for healthier eating and money saving! Trust me, the payback is worthwhile in the long run… and often, that means spending more time with our kiddo instead of in the grocery store!
Conclusion
Overall, the world of child nutrition can feel like walking through a maze to any parent. Staying informed and dispelling some of the myths can help us all promote health in our child’s food environment, and remember, all kids are unique and what may work for one child may not work for another. Trust your gut, be patient, and enjoy the vibrant tastes!
Feel free to share any of your experiences, tips, or favorite healthy recipes in the comments below. Let’s build a community where we can begin to grow, learn, and support each other because we are in this together!
Read more articles: Myths in Nutrition
