Why You Need to Wean Your Kids Off of Junk Food Today

The fast food industry has taken a formula of quick, tasty food, cleverly packaged and managed to lure kids and teens alike who over time, become almost addicted to the taste. Read more to learn why our kids need to be weaned off of junk food a.s.a.p.

Fatty and sugary foods are appealing to the taste buds, however, they can be addictive for children and lead to complications like obesity, chronic illness, low self-esteem, and even depression, as well as affecting how they perform in school.

A study published in “Pediatrics” in 2004 found that when children eat fast food, they consume more calories, fewer nutrients, in addition to unhealthy food throughout the rest of the day.

The journal “American Family Physician” states that low energy boosting diets deficient in veggies, fruits, nuts, and real food and rich in junk food filled with additives and chemicals may lead to depression, it affects a child’s physical development in detrimental ways, including unhealthy weight gain, which can result in self-esteem problems which makes them eat again, a never ending loop.

A diet high in junk food can also hinder your child’s school performance; foods high in sugar deplete energy levels and the ability to concentrate. If a child is consuming sweets, chocolates, or sweetened beverages during the break time at school, he/she will definitely feel edgy within an hour as a result of disruption in blood sugar levels and concentration in class.

Children’s relationship with food is directly related to growth, but saying “No!” without explanation won’t work! They might not eat junk food in our presence due to fear but do so with their friends or away from home.

(Written by: Nathalie Djabrayan, licensed clinical dietitian at Djabrayan Chiropractic Care & Diet Center)