When it comes to finding meals that are both healthy and appealing to your kids, finding the right options can be difficult
We’ve tried to make it a little easier on parents by rounding up a few foods that your kids should probably try to stay away from.
Kids’ yogurt
While some yogurts are a healthy option for kids, parents need to steer clear of products specifically labeled “kids’ yogurt.” Mother Nature Network reports that kids’ yogurts can be loaded with artificial colors and sugars, negating most of health benefits.
Sports drinks
These type of drinks are really only appropriate when your child is exercising heavily during a hot day, reports MNN. Otherwise, offer your kids water before and during the sport activity. After the game, offer chocolate milk to replenish.
Sugary cereal
Just because a cereal box might say “whole grain” or “extra fiber” doesn’t always mean it is healthy. According to MNN’s website, the only cereals found to have lower sugar amounts were Cheerios, Honey Nut Cheerios, Kix and Life.
Soda
This is one not that surprising. Newsweek’s website says soda is linked to causing type two diabetes, obesity and even aggressive behavior in children. Just a 20 ounce bottle of soda can contain over 60 grams of sugar alone. WOW. Grab the water, folks.
Fruit Snacks
Unfortunately gummy fruit snacks, fruit rolls and jellies are “nothing but sugar,” says Newsweek. Most advise treating the snacks like candy instead of lunchtime. If you’re searching for an actual fruit snack then look for the label of “made with real fruit juice.”
Granola Bars
Before you snatch a quick granola bar as a snack for your kids on the way out the door, keep in mind it might not be much better than candy. Newsweek reports that most of the granola bars don’t really contain healthy ingredients. You have to check and make sure on the label that it’s not filled with tons of high-fructose syrup or other added sugars.
Apple Juice
This one was particularly heartbreaking for us to write about. According to Newsweek’s website, apple juice isn’t the only boxed fruit juice you should be worried about giving to your kids. Newsweek says that even juice boxes labeled “100 percent” juice can have tons of sugar or fructose. Plus one of the best aspects of eating apples is the fiber-filled peeling.
SPECIAL SECTION: Are you sugar coated? Find out more about the affects of sugar in your diet
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