Finding a Sweet Balance
If your child constantly asks you for sweets, and you never know exactly how to respond, you’re far from alone! Plenty of parents struggle with knowing how to handle the question of sugar in their children’s diet.
Registered Dietitian Kalli Ventura, who works with one of the biggest school districts in America, says one of the most important things is finding balance. Sugar-sweetened foods can be a part of a healthy diet in moderation. But moderation and balance are the key. Kalli tackles some of the most common questions she hears from parents about sugar on a recent installment of the “What’s a Parent to Do?” blog.
The Sugar Difference
It’s important to distinguish between the types of sugar, says Kalli (pictured). There’s naturally occurring sugars in fruit and dairy products. Then, there’s added sugars, which parents should keep an eye on. Added sugars are listed on product nutrition labels. In excess, added sugar has been linked to several troubling health conditions.
How Much Is Too Much?
The American Heart Association recommends that children and teens consume less than six teaspoons of added sugar a day. For reference, one serving of a sugary breakfast cereal could contain over two teaspoons! The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting added sugar to less than 10% of calories per day starting at age two—and children younger than two should avoid it altogether.
How to Handle Kids’ Sugar Requests
There’s an art to answering kids’ sugar questions, says Kalli. You don’t want to demonize or deny sweets outright but also do want to make sure they’re getting plenty of foods with better nutritional benefits. On the blog, Kalli offers some tried-and-true tips to steer kids in the right direction.
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you.