Collaborative Post¦ With so many cheap and convenient options to feed your children these days, it’s no wonder why obesity rates are soaring in young people. Around one in four children are obese or seriously overweight, and the number is in a constant state of increase.
Wherever you go, there are fast food restaurants offering unhealthy meals at a low, low price, and adverts for burgers and chicken nuggets posted on every bus stop and billboard you see. And despite recent regulations about advertising junk food on children’s TV, these establishments still target their wares at young people through happy meal promotions and colourful cartoon characters.
It can be difficult to convince your child to eat a healthy diet, particularly if their school friends are bringing crisps and chocolate in their packed lunches every day. But it is incredibly important not to cave in and give your little one the junk food they want. A balanced diet is so important for children, not only for their physical health but for so many other reasons too.
Health issues
Eating a diet full of saturated fats and sugars is inarguably unhealthy, and can lead to a much higher risk of serious illness when they get older. Poor eating habits have been linked to a huge range of medical issues such as strokes, heart disease, and diabetes. As a parent, it is your responsibility to keep your child healthy and safe, so make sure they get plenty of vitamins and minerals in their diet. There is nothing wrong with the occasional trip to McDonalds as a treat, but it should not form a major part of their nutrition.
Fitness
Your child is still growing, and the fuel they put into their body will determine their physical attributes. If they are eating rubbish all the time, their fitness will suffer and they will struggle when it comes to sports and playing outside. They will be less likely to grow up fit and strong, and these negative eating habits will perpetuate themselves.
Development
A balanced diet full of fruit, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals is essential for your child’s development. Not only in body but in mind. If you keep feeding them junk, their performance in school will be negatively impacted and they will struggle to get ahead in life.
Teeth
Poor eating habits doesn’t just affect fitness and weight, but also dental hygiene too. Consuming an excess of sugary snacks and fizzy drinks will lead to a buildup of plaque, gum disease, and tooth decay. You can avoid oral health issues by feeding them healthy meals, keeping them well hydrated, and visiting the dentist regularly. You don’t want them to grow up needing cosmetic surgery, such as the services provided by Dental Excellence.
Attitudes
Promoting the importance of eating well at a young age is more likely to instil good habits in your child which they will carry through to adulthood. Don’t make eating fruit and vegetables seem like a chore, as there are plenty of healthy family meals that are both delicious and nutritious.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.