New study indicates 40% of kids calories are empty

According to a new study published in this months Journal of the American Dietetic Association (October 201 issue):

• empty calories represent 40% of the average American child's diet
• more than 11% of calories came from sugary drinks (compare that to 1991 when only 6% came from sugary drinks)
• The top sources of calories for children are grain-based desserts ( such as cookies), pizza, soda and breads

Here is some facts you may not know:

Sugary drinks do not fill up a child's tummy the way actual food does.  That means they will probably eat more

Fruit juice is a high source of sugar (even 100%) so fruit juice should be limited to once a day as a fruit serving.  Eating fresh fruit or dried fruit is a much better way to get your fruit serving.

Kids need to eat for two key reasons:

one:  is calories to give their body energy to be active, think and grow

two:  to get vitamins and minerals that help the body develop a strong and healthy immune system, brains and overall healthy body and brain function

For a child to get all these nutrients, they need a balanced diet with foods from all the food groups.

Changing habits and diet can be challenging but if you do it gradually and keep it positive, it is much easier.  Start with just one change.  Focus on that until it becomes more of a usual habit.

Make it a family goal, not the individual child's goal.  Each change will add up to a healthier child and healthier family.  Patience and being positive is your best tools for success.

We are here to support you and help you:

A step guide to setting healthy goals as a family and keep your child motivated

Fun, cute, kid friendly healthy goal setting sheets and tracking sheets (post on fridge)

tips for limiting sugary drinks