Promoting Good Nutrition for Our Youth

As we approach the end of Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, we’d like to share some helpful tips that may assist parents and guardians in promoting good nutrition for our youth. A healthy diet offers us the benefit of lowering our risk of health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension and overweight/obesity.

FACTS

According to the U.S. Department of Health Human Services, nearly 33% of adults and 17% of children and adolescents are considered to be obese. Additionally, the Office of Minority Health reports that 23.5% of non-Hispanic Black children and adolescents classify as obese. This is compared to 15.5% of non-Hispanic White children and adolescents. In an effort to set up our youth for a healthy future, it’s key that we continue to promote the value of good nutrition by starting in the household and within our communities.

HOW GOOD NUTRITION FOR OUR YOUTH HELPS

When parents and guardians advocate for healthy eating and regular physical activity, we provide children with a head start on health. Additionally, children may also be more apt to carry healthy dietary patterns into adulthood. The average American diet includes excess amounts of refined grains, added sugar, solid fats and sodium. Along with lowering the risk of various health conditions, numerous studies have shown that healthy eating and weight maintenance among youth can help to:

• Improve academic performance
• Stabilize energy levels
• Improve cognitive functioning
• Help prevent mental conditions

STEPS TO TAKE

Just as adults are encouraged to make wiser choices, the same concern should be given when it comes to the foods we feed our young ones. For children at least 2 years or older, it is generally recommended that the following guidelines be considered:

• Provide a well-rounded, balanced diet: Aim to include all the food groups so that children are able to receive all of the nutrients their bodies need for growth.
• Monitor fat intake levels: Children need fat for healthy growth, but when consumed in excess, it may lead to other health concerns. Be mindful of the fat content of children’s food items.
• Limit the intake of sodium and added sugars: High amounts of sodium can increase the risk of blood pressure, while excess sugar may heighten the chances of type 2 diabetes development. Work to limit the consumption of processed foods, fast food, sugary drinks and pastries.
• Ensure adequate hydration: Kids require the right amount of water as they grow, especially when extremely active or in warmer climates. Encourage children to opt for water over sugary beverages and sodas.

MAKE IT FUN AND ENJOYABLE

With a wide array of responsibilities and tasks to take care of, taking the time out to promote healthy nutrition may sometimes fall by the wayside. Consider some of the following suggestions regarding ways to encourage good eating habits:

• Be a good role model for children. Encourage youth to make healthier food choices by modeling similar behavior in the home.
• Make mealtime a priority. Enhance the value of coming together for meals by making it a joyous occasion that the family looks forward to.
• Cook and shop together. These can be opportunities to teach children about different types of foods and how to build healthy, creative meal options.
• Monitor children’s eating habits. As children become more independent, observe their eating patterns. Talk about why certain foods may or may not be healthy.
• Include multiple food groups within meals. This can help with ensuring that kids receive a wide range of nutrients through the diet.
• Make gradual changes towards consuming healthier foods. If the goal is to improve the eating habits for the entire household, start with small adjustments.

There is a lot that goes into raising children. It is always our main hope that we guide them in the direction of living their healthiest and most fulfilling lives. By continually promoting good nutrition for our youth, we can help to guide the next generation towards more improved wellness.

SOURCES

https://www.hhs.gov/fitness/resource-center/facts-and-statistics/index.html

https://www.hhs.gov/fitness/eat-healthy/importance-of-good-nutrition/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/healthyschools/nutrition/facts.htm

https://familydoctor.org/nutrition-tips-for-kids/