Obesity is an alarming problem around the world, and unfortunately, this includes our little ones. Pediatric obesity is increasing despite efforts of the national and federal groups to reduce this phenomenon.
According to the Center for Childhood Obesity Research, various factors such as genetics, environment, lifestyle and food play a role in our child's health. Current obesity rates doubled this year as compared 30 years ago. What is the cause of this? Could it be wrong information? Read on and learn more.
Dr. Dya Hes, the Medical Director of Gramercy Paediatrics stated that there are various food myths making the kids fat. First, foods labelled as "Gluten Free" and "Organic" can sometimes be misleading. According to Dr. Hes, "When deciding what to feed growing children, it's important to look at foods as a whole."
It is also a must to check the nutrition facts and look for things like sodium, artificial sweetener and calories since these items determine if the food is good for the health or not. Juices have long been considered as a healthy drink. But do they really make your kids fit?
Little do you know, juices are high-calorie beverages that contribute to weight gain. Excess intake of juices tends to fill children up easily which leads to lesser appetite for solid foods containing protein, fiber and good fats.
Wheat bread is good, but it does not necessary contain healthy grains the kids need for mental and physical growth. "There are fewer differences between white bread and whole wheat bread. They both have high levels of glucose that are broken into the bloodstream," Dr. Hes shared. This means that the glucose content of whole wheat bread can lead to more serious health problems including diabetes.
Lastly, vegetable chips -- have you heard of this? Commonly called as veggie chips, these snack items are fun to chum, but have you considered paying much attention to the amount of actual vegetable nutrient found in this snack items? The vital nutrient components of these snack items are lost in the manufacturing processes.
Instead, find ways to include fresh fruits and vegetables in the family's regularly meal. After all, this is the best and healthiest way to feed your little ones.
