Just like adults' diets, children's diets deserve special attention, as eating habits acquired in childhood can influence their health throughout their lives.
3 "toxic" foods that a cardiologist wouldn't give to his children
Just like adults' diets, children's diets deserve special attention, as eating habits acquired in childhood can influence their health throughout their lives. On the Today portal, cardiologist Sanjay Bhojraj revealed three foods that, in...
Flavored yogurts Yogurts aimed at children, easily found in supermarkets, tend to contain large amounts of sugar and artificial colors, warns the expert. Therefore, before buying, it is worth reading the label carefully to check the amount of sugar and the presence of added ingredients.
- Processed meats Several studies associate frequent consumption of processed meats with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Products such as bacon, sausage, salami and ham usually have high levels of sodium, preservatives and nitrates.
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On the Today portal, cardiologist Sanjay Bhojraj revealed three foods that, in his opinion, should be avoided in children's diets as they are considered "toxic" for the body.
1. Flavored yogurts
Yogurts aimed at children, easily found in supermarkets, tend to contain large amounts of sugar and artificial colors, warns the expert.
Therefore, before buying, it is worth reading the label carefully to check the amount of sugar and the presence of added ingredients.
2. Processed meats
Several studies associate frequent consumption of processed meats with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Products such as bacon, sausage, salami and ham usually have high levels of sodium, preservatives and nitrates.
"As a cardiologist, I am concerned about the effects that these compounds can have on the body at a cellular level. They interfere with important substances, such as nitric oxide, responsible for regulating blood pressure and maintaining the health of blood vessels", explained Bhojraj.
3. Cereals and sugary drinks
According to the expert, children up to 11 years old should avoid foods and drinks with added sugar. This includes processed breakfast cereals, soft drinks, artificial juices and other sweetened drinks.
Why is this important?
According to the American Heart Association, eating habits begin to be formed from the first years of life.
The organization recommends that children adopt a heart-healthy diet, as this also promotes good cardiovascular health in adult life.
How to make eating healthier?
Nutritionists recommend choosing whole grain cereals made from 100% whole grains and with as little sugar as possible. If it is necessary to sweeten, a good alternative is to add fresh fruit.
In the case of yogurts, the best option is usually natural Greek yogurt accompanied by fruit and, for children over one year old and with the pediatrician's guidance, a small amount of honey.
To replace processed meats, the ideal is to opt for healthier protein sources, such as grilled chicken, fish, eggs and vegetable proteins, including lentils, chickpeas and quinoa.
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