Research Says Young Kids Consume Too Few Greens and Drink Soda Excessively

A recent survey has demonstrated the exacerbation of unhealthy eating habits among young Americans. More than 18,000 children took part in the survey, with parents answering questions about their kids’ eating habits. The result was baffling – more and more children between 1 and 5 are excessively consuming sugary drinks. Another shocking tendency is that fewer and fewer children eat enough greens.

The First State-Wide Survey of Its Kind

The first state-wide survey of its kind revealed some unpleasant truths. Namely, our children are increasingly consuming unhealthy foods while ditching healthy alternatives to the curb. Senior author of the study Heather Hamner said it’s important to think about similar incentives to help the community identify detrimental patterns and improve the nutritional environment throughout the country.

The research revealed that almost ½ of all children didn’t eat any greens per day. In Louisiana, the number rose to 64%, with only 36% of all kids eating a veggie every day. In addition, close to a third of the interviewed children didn’t eat fruits daily.

Greens Are Being Replaced

So, what replaces greens in kids’ diets across the country? Like it or not, it’s none other than sugary drinks. Almost 57% of all children who participated in the study consumed at least one soft drink each day. Moreover, researchers determined that the youngest children in the test group were most likely to consume veggies and fruits every day.

Of course, these eating habits are far from healthy. After all, a diet filled with greens, even frozen ones, can incredibly boost a kid’s physical and mental development. According to modern-day nutritional guidelines for children, toddlers must consume an average of one cup of fruits and veggies per day. Young children aged up to 8 should eat at least 1.5 cups of fresh or frozen green vegetables and fruits per day.

The authors of the study didn’t neglect to stress the importance of building healthy dietary habits from an early age. After all, people acquire many of their adult behavioral patterns in early childhood. So it’s important to unite and create a healthier dietary pattern for every child in the states.