As parents, we all want to ensure that our children are getting the right nutrition they need to grow up healthy and strong.
However, there are many common myths about kids’ nutrition that may be holding us back from providing our children with the best possible diet. In this article, we’re going to take a look at 10 of the most common myths about kids’ nutrition and set the record straight.
Myth #1: Kids Don’t Need Supplements
Many parents believe that their children don’t need supplements if they’re eating a healthy diet. However, even the healthiest diets may not provide all of the nutrients that kids need to grow up strong and healthy.
A daily multivitamin can help ensure that your child is getting all of the essential vitamins and minerals they need to thrive.
Myth #2: All Sugar Is Bad for Kids
While it’s true that too much sugar can be harmful to kids’ health, not all sugar is created equal. Natural sugars found in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products are important sources of energy and nutrients for growing bodies.
It’s added sugars, such as those found in soda, candy, and baked goods, that should be limited in kids’ diets.
Myth #3: Low-Fat Foods Are Always Healthier
Low-fat foods are often marketed as a healthy choice for kids, but this isn’t always the case. Many low-fat foods are high in added sugars and processed ingredients.
In fact, some full-fat foods, such as avocados and nuts, are actually healthier choices for kids because they contain good fats that are important for brain development.
Myth #4: Juice Is a Healthy Choice
While fruit juice can be a good source of vitamins and minerals, it’s also high in sugar. Even 100% fruit juice contains natural sugars that can be harmful if consumed in large quantities.
In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that kids under 1 year old avoid fruit juice altogether, and that older kids consume no more than 4-6 ounces per day.
Myth #5: Eating Too Much Protein Is Bad for Kids
Protein is an important nutrient for kids, as it helps to build and repair tissues in the body. While it’s true that too much protein can be harmful, most kids don’t need to worry about eating too much.
As long as they’re getting a balanced diet that includes a variety of protein sources, such as lean meat, poultry, fish, beans, and dairy products, they should be getting the right amount of protein they need.
Myth #6: Carbs Are Bad for Kids
Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for growing bodies, and kids need a certain amount of carbs in their diet to thrive. However, not all carbs are created equal.
Complex carbs, such as those found in whole grains, are healthier choices than simple carbs, such as those found in sugary snacks and processed foods.
Myth #7: Kids Need to Drink Milk for Strong Bones
While milk is a good source of calcium, it’s not the only way that kids can get the nutrients they need for strong bones. Other dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, also contain calcium.
Additionally, calcium can be found in a variety of non-dairy foods, such as leafy greens, almonds, and tofu.
Myth #8: Kids Shouldn’t Eat After 6 PM
While it’s true that kids should avoid overeating before bedtime, the idea that they shouldn’t eat after 6 PM is a myth. In fact, some kids may need a snack before bed to help them sleep better.
The key is to make sure that the snack is healthy and not too large.
Myth #9: Organic Foods Are Always Healthier
While organic foods may be free from pesticides and other chemicals, they aren’t always healthier than non-organic options. For example, organic snacks and sweets may still be high in sugar and calories.
The key is to focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of healthy foods, regardless of whether they’re organic or not.
Myth #10: Vegan and Vegetarian Diets Are Always Healthy
While vegan and vegetarian diets can be healthy for kids, they need to be carefully planned to ensure that kids are getting all of the nutrients they need.
Plant-based diets can be low in certain nutrients, such as protein, iron, and calcium, that are essential for growing bodies. If your child is following a vegan or vegetarian diet, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to ensure that they’re getting the nutrients they need.