Why shouldn't children eat too much sugar?
According to the American Heart Association, children aged 2 to 18 should consume less than 90 grams of sugar (found in snacks, drinks and processed foods) per day. Pediatrician and neonatologist Abhishek Chopra (India) said that consuming too much sugar can negatively affect many aspects of a child's health. Consuming too many calories from sugar makes children susceptible to uncontrolled weight gain, tooth decay and increases the risk of chronic diseases.
5 tips to help children reduce sugar cravings
Provide your child with balanced meals rich in protein and fiber.
Adding protein- and fiber-rich foods to your child’s daily diet can help keep blood sugar levels stable and promote feelings of fullness. To reduce sugar cravings in children, make sure your family’s daily meals include a balance of protein and fiber.
Eat foods that are naturally sweet
Instead of loading up on sugar from processed foods, add some naturally sweet fruits to your family's menu to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber for the body. Eating fruit helps satisfy your taste buds without causing sudden spikes and drops in blood sugar.
Avoid sugary drinks
Sugary drinks like soda, sugary fruit juices, and energy drinks are among the culprits that cause blood sugar spikes, which increase cravings. To reduce sugar cravings in children, encourage them to drink water, unsweetened milk, and unsweetened smoothies.
Limit processed snacks
Many processed snacks like cookies, candy, and chips contain hidden sugars and little nutrition, which can trigger cyclical sugar cravings in children. Help your child develop healthy eating habits by replacing processed snacks with whole foods like nuts, yogurt, or fruit.
Parents become role models for healthy eating
Children often imitate the behavior of their parents or other family members. Parents who eat healthy will set a positive example and help children understand the importance of eating a balanced diet. Stay away from sugary foods and cook healthy, balanced meals for the whole family to reduce sugar cravings in children.
