We all know that consuming too many sweets is bad for our health. Not only can it raise our risks for diabetes, but it can also damage our teeth. But, if that’s the case, then why are so many children still eating so many candies, chocolates, and other sugary treats?
Ask any pediatric dentist in Lehi and they will tell you that most cases of tooth decay are caused by sugary foods. So, if your kids can’t spend a day without a candy bar, it’s time that you tame their sweet tooth. Here’s how.
Be a role model
Children emulate their parents. It’s just the way that kids behave, so you need to keep that in mind if you want to wean them off sweets. If you can show them that your diet consists only of healthy foods, then they might be able to knock off their love for sugar.
Make adjustments to your home, including eliminating every sugary drink or food. If your children can’t find candies, sugary cereals, or any tasty treat in the house, they won’t have a choice but to eat your healthy snacks.
Start them early
Kids often develop a love for junk food when they’re very young. Parents, on the other hand, often develop this preference for sweets in their children because they use it as positive reinforcement. When kids do something good, such as washing the dishes or sitting still during a dental check-up, parents usually give them a lollipop as a reward.
But if you want to help your little ones stay away from sweets, you need to start early in helping them love healthy foods. Try giving them vegetables as a toddler. Use carrot sticks or any other healthy foods as snacks.
Tell them why vegetables are good
You can also help your children develop a love for healthy foods by telling them why it’s good. Be as imaginative as possible when explaining the benefits of vegetables, though, because simply telling them that it’s good for their health won’t convince them to eat some. You need to paint them a picture of how it can be good for them.
For example, you can tell them that by eating vegetables, they will be able to run faster or jump higher or even perform better in class. There are many benefits to eating vegetables and other healthy foods; all you need is to think of a way to make those benefits appealing to children.
Let them feel the effects of sugar
Your children need to know the negative effects of sugar on their bodies. Sugar from candies and chocolate bars can give them energy, but only for a short time. Once that “sugar high” comes down, they will feel sluggish and even irritable.
Tell them that if they eat more fruits instead, they will get the same amount of energy without the sudden drop. This means that they won’t feel their energy completely depleted and they will be able to play games longer, which will definitely be appealing to them.
Helping your kids stay off of sweets can benefit them in the long run. Not only will they be able to prevent obesity but they will also be able to keep their teeth healthy for years to come.
