Developing a Healthy Eating Habit in Your Child – 7 Things to Avoid

Nutrients are essential for energy, organ function, food utilization, and growth of cells. The six main nutrients are carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins, and fibers. Eating the wrong kind of food and eating the wrong way will jeopardize the intake of nutrients. Here are the 7 things to avoid and to achieve an effective intake of nutrients by your child.


1. Avoid artificial coloring and preservatives: Scientists suggested that they could be causing fidgeting and a lack of attention seen in many children. Children who were given drinks with colors and preservatives, parents noted a clear increase in hyperactivity.

2. Avoid refined and processed foods: Refined foods cause us to overeat, more calories are absorbed and it is more likely to store as fat

3. Avoid junk food: Junk foods are low in nutrition and they are unhealthy. They are more likely to contain fat, sugar, and sodium. These foods will interfere with your child’s ability to eat balanced meals. Furthermore, junk foods are addictive. Scientists at Scripps Research Institute in Jupiter, Florida, studied rats fed on cheesecake, bacon, and sausages. Soon after the experiments began the animals began to bulk up and show signs of addiction.

4. Avoid soft drinks: Use unsweetened, fresh fruit instead of soft drinks. The consumption of sugar-sweetened soft drinks is associated with obesity, type2 diabetes, dental cavities, and low nutrient level

5. Avoid using food as a reward: You eat food when you are hungry but not as a habit. Extra calorie intake by a child will lead to obesity

6. Avoid wolfing down your food: Eating too quickly will not obtain the full nutritional value as the digestive process begins with the saliva in the mouth. Eat slowly and chew each mouthful.

7. Avoid picking on food: Your child may miss out on vital nutrients and become listless and may easily fall sick. Eating a variety of food is the key to maximize the intake of nutrients.


For your child to be in better health and become a better learner it is necessary to provide all the necessary nutrients to support healthy growth in your child.