Easter is just around the corner and kids definitely enjoy the occasion as they’re given endless amounts of treats in the form of Easter eggs and chocolate bunnies. But beware as too many sweets can spoil the fun!
A news report in the US has said a big chocolate bunny can contain up to 100 grams of sugar while a quarter cup serving of jelly beans has 27 grams.
These treats have sugar content beyond the recommended levels by the American Heart Association, which says children ages 2 to 18 should consume no more 25 grams of added sugar per day, while kids under 2 should consume none at all.
Despite that, parents shouldn’t be a killjoy during Easter! Here’s Dr. Leora Martin, a nutritionist at OASIS International Hospital with her tips on enjoying a sugar-free Easter.
Moderation is key
Allow kids to eat sweets but tell them why consuming foodstuff with too much sugar is bad for their health. They may be young to grasp the concept, so parents should be their role models especially in eating nutritious food and adopting a healthy lifestyle.
And this idea applies every day, not only during Easter!
Plan before the holiday comes
If you anticipate that kids will consume several days’ worth of sugar at Easter, inform them ahead that the treats should be spread out and not eaten in just one sitting. It is important to involve them in the conversation so that they have a say about the plan.
Aside from that, it is also wise to think about the meals the week before and after Easter so that foods with added sugar like bread, yogurt, and juices, can be taken out of the meals to accommodate the expected extra doses of sweets.
Read nutrition labels
If you are planning to give other children sweet treats, be mindful of the servings or portions. Check out the nutrition labels to make sure you don’t overload the treats with sugar.
Get your sweet and creative juices flowing!
Easter is a day of fun and it’s not limited to just eating sugary food. Make it a family day out and enjoy the pleasant weather outside by doing some crafts. Alternatively, you can go inside the kitchen and make Easter-themed healthy foodstuff. The possibilities are endless!
Follow Easter with a checkup
There’s no better time to visit your dentist than now – but since Easter is upon us, you can book an appointment afterward to ensure that your and your kids’ oral health is fine. Just don’t wait when the worse comes to worst before you have a check-up!
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