Health · sugar · Sugary food ·

Sugar and its impact on Healthy Kids

junk food

Eating unhealthy junk and sugar rich food may be the cause. Find out more-

Studies have shown that food intake is linked to a child’s mood and behaviour.

According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), foods with added sugar should make up no more than 10% of daily calories in anyone ages 2 and older. For children 2 years and younger, added sugars should be avoided altogether.

Unhealthy eating habits like eating high sugar and junk based foods has been associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Research has shown that children who ate more junk food and have high sugar intake have 33% higher chances of showing hyperactive behavioural issues at the age of 7.

Also, excess sugar consumption in form of sugary drinks, cakes, pastries, sweet snacks on daily basis is linked to 

  • Lack of concentration 
  • Mood swings
  • Nutritional Deficiencies

What is the relation of Sugary food intake and Hyperactive behaviour??

Sugar is a simple carbohydrate that breaks down fast in our digestive tract and reaches our bloodstream quickly, so if we are hungry and feeling low on energy, our brain and body will feel a burst of energy shortly after eating sugar. 

  • Short term effect: causes SUGAR RUSH

More of sugar results in release of extra insulin to absorb this excess blood sugar. These frequent changes in efforts by the body to release or not extra insulin makes the child feel lethargic, drained, irritable and moody.

But in reality, it's an indication that their bodies need more food—hopefully, something with more protein or fat.

  • Long term effect: 

Too much sugar consumption leads to calorie load which in turn causes weight gain. Weight gain in children can lead to life threatening diseases like hypertension, heart problems, diabetes and fatty liver disease. 

Eating healthy foods (fruits, dals, veggies, whole cereals, high fibre foods) has a beneficial impact on their behaviour and learning capabilities. 

For example, make sure every of your child’s 3 major meals has, one serving of whole cereal which is a source for carbs, one animal or plant protein serving, fats coming from ghee, nuts and seeds or healthy oils and fibre, vitamins and minerals coming from 1-2 servings of fruit and vegetables. 

Switch to healthy eating (a balanced diet) and see the positive impacts:

  • Better concentration in studies
  • Improved learning skills
  • High grasping power
  • Socially active in making friends, prefers to play in groups
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