In recent decades, the consumption of junk food among children has been increasing alarmingly. Something that in Mediterranean countries like Spain is even more striking and worrying, since our Mediterranean diet is considered the best in the world. The foods of our land are healthy, rich, varied and the gastronomy of Spain is one of the best valued in the world.
However, most kids prefer a hamburger from a fast food restaurant, before a good homemade sandwich. The problem is not that children eat this type of food occasionally, but that, for them, junk food has become a prize, something fun that is eaten with the hands, which includes a gift toy and also It has an addictive flavor that home cooking does not have.
Problems derived from the consumption of junk food
Junk food, also known as fast food, gets its name because it is foods that do not provide nutrients that the body needs. Instead, these foods are full of sugars, sodium, saturated fat and all kinds of unhealthy substances for the body. In addition, its preparation, which is usually quick, with little preparation and in many cases with low-quality ingredients, add the term "fast" to the name.
These types of unhealthy products are the leading cause of obesity in many countries of the world. A worrying fact since it also affects children. Excess fat, refined flours, sugars, fried foods and everything that accompanies this type of food, such as soft drinks, add a significant risk to children's health. Since, in addition to obesity and emotional problems associated with excess weight, health problems such as diabetes or cardiovascular problems, among others, must be added.
How to reduce fast food consumption in children
The main key so that children do not consume so much fast food, would be that they have never tried it. Namely, the child cannot miss something they have never had or tried. However, the prohibitions never fulfill their main function, quite the contrary. The more you deny him what he wants, the more eagerly the child will want it. Therefore, to prevent junk food consumption from becoming dangerous, it is essential to control it from the beginning.
These are some keys to reducing junk food consumption:
- Prepared at home much better: Children can have hamburgers, pizzas, hot dogs and all kinds of fast food. Yes indeed, occasionally and whenever possible, prepared everything at home in an artisanal way. If the children help you prepare the food, in addition to enjoying the final product, they will have a great time cooking.
- Food is not a prize, it is a necessity: Many times we make children confuse need with desire. What becomes a potential danger since children will develop a bad relationship with food. It is very important that from a young age they understand that food is a necessity, the gasoline that their body needs to function. But eating should never be a whim, a desire or a way to solve problems, such as boredom or sadness. Neither should associate fast food with a prize for doing something right, since this only causes confusion for the little ones.
- Teach children to eat everything: This is the best way to avoid unhealthy habits, such as the desire to eat junk food. For example, if one day you eat fast food at home, try to always make it accompanied by something healthy, like a salad or some vegetables.
- Be the best example for your children: Always eat healthy and as a family, so the children will get used to eating the same as you. Make sure every meal is a moment of tranquility, without distractions like television.