Sugar may seem harmless. What’s wrong with letting your kid have a soda or two, or munch on a bunch of Halloween candy? Everyone does it!
That’s true. But, just like all good things, sugar should be consumed in moderation. If your kids eat too much sugar, they’re at risk of developing a variety of health and lifestyle issues. In this article, we’ll look at just 4 reasons you should think about cutting your children’s sugar intake and monitoring their diets more closely.
1. To Avoid Tooth Decay
This is one of the most important reasons to cut down on the sugar your kids consume. Tooth decay is the #1 most common preventable childhood disease. 42% of kids aged 2-11 develop a cavity in their baby teeth, and around 20% of kids aged 6-11 have cavities in their adult teeth, according to the NIH.
To avoid tooth decay, proper oral care, such as brushing twice a day and flossing once a day, is critical. So is visiting your dentist for six-month pediatric oral exams and cleanings. But diet is just as important. Reducing sugar consumption results in a much lower risk of developing cavities.
2. To Encourage Better Life-Long Dietary Habits
Your kids should be eating healthy foods, like whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and other such foods. Why? Because the habits they create in childhood will stick with them. If they eat too much sugar and candy or drink a lot of juice or soda, they’re likely to continue doing so when they grow up. In contrast, if they’re fed a healthy, low-sugar diet, they’re more likely to eat healthy when they grow up.
3. To Avoid Diabetes and Childhood Obesity
Diabetes and childhood obesity are completely avoidable and preventable with a proper diet. Overindulging in sugary and starchy foods correlates directly to a higher risk of obesity and development of type 2 diabetes.
4. To Encourage Higher-Quality Sleep
We all know what it feels like to come down with a “sugar crash,” after eating too many sweets. Research suggests that overconsumption of sugar can interfere with natural sleep patterns, and lead to premature exhaustion.
Build Healthier Habits in Your Kids – Reduce Sugar Consumption
For these above reasons, and many more, you should try to reduce your children’s sugar intake and keep a closer eye on their diet. By doing so, you can encourage better overall health, and help them form better, lifelong dietary habits.