Slowing Down on Fast Food
An Effective Way to Manage Your Child's Weight
It might seem convenient at the time, cruising through the drive-through after school, practice or a big game. It can seem like a fun treat too, but those fast food burgers, fries and sodas can be detrimental to your child's weight and health.
Help curb those cravings by implementing the following tips:
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Plan ahead. Is the week ahead crammed with activities? Make it a point to grab some to-go snacks before the week starts. Healthy options include granola bars, yogurt, fruits and vegetables. These can help ease hunger until you can get home.
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Make the rainbow. Keep meals interesting by incorporating bright colors and fun options. Try your hand at fruit kebabs or vegetable plates with various dipping sauces.
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Clip those coupons. Let's be honest – fast food is cheap and convenient. Look for coupons and sales and consider cutting out unhealthy snacks to help save some cash.
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Save time at the store. Families are busy, which is why grocery delivery is growing in popularity. Order your groceries between work emails and have them ready for pick-up or delivery when you and your family get home. It saves time and fuel!
Fast Food Fast Facts
- Calorie counts in one fast food meal can quickly exceed the recommended daily amount for children, leading to excess calories and extra weight in the long term.
- Fast food, while packed with flavor, lacks the nutrition that kids need to grow physically and develop mentally. A lack of vitamins can lead to poor school performance and physical health problems over time.
- It's more than a meal – fast food advertising is everywhere, making it harder to resist. It's important to curb the habit early and avoid using it as a reward. Healthy habits start at home.
- Even if your child lives an active lifestyle, too much fast food can lead to health problems and weight troubles. And the habit of the drive-through can carry into adolescence and adulthood as well.
Family and Parenting
Pediatrics
