Peace Itong
Children have the right to a healthy living because it helps them prevent many chronic diseases in future. Healthy living habits are also more likely to stay with them if they learn them as children.
Article 27 of the UN convention on the Rights of the Child provides that “Children have a right to a standard of living that is good enough to meet their needs. The government should help families who cannot afford to provide this and ensure that parents and guardians meet their financial responsibilities towards their children”
Children require healthy meals to grow, below are some unhealthy foods to avoid;
- Sugary cereals
- Microwave popcorn. The butter topping can contain hydrogenated oils.
- Refrigerated biscuits. Especially when topped with butter or margarine.
- Margarine sticks. In order for it to maintain its stick-like shape, hydrogenated oils are added to the margarine.
- Crackers. Used to create the light and airy texture.
- Candy. Not that candy is healthy anyways, but all the sugar and oil is a bad combination.
- Canned frosting. Contains oils that provide a long shelf life.
- Fried foods. The oils that many restaurants use are hydrogenated because it can be used for a longer period of time.
- Pancakes and waffles. Boxed mixes can contain shortening or oils that are not good for you.
Why are they unhealthy?
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According to The Daily Meal and Health, they contain trans-fats.W
What are trans-fats?
Trans fats occur naturally in some meat and dairy products, according to the American Heart Association.
However, many are made artificially by hydrogenating or partially hydrogenating oils, which is a process that adds hydrogen to liquid oils in order to make them more solid.
“Children and adults should never eat foods that have trans-fat, hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated,” says Nanette Cameron, registered dietitian and author of The Perfect Day cookbook.
When someone ingests trans fat, it not only raises the bad cholesterol, or LDL, in his or her body, but it lowers the good cholesterol, or HDL.
Healthy foods children can enjoy in place of ones with trans fats are:
- Natural peanut butter. Some brands make natural options made without trans fats. Look for it on the label.
- Cereal. Some kid’s cereals do not contain trans fats, such as Trix and Lucky Charms.
- Freshly made biscuits. Healthier and more fun to make with your kids.
- Triscuit crackers. Free of trans fats and made with whole grains.
- Fruit. Instead of processed and refined sugar, kids can get their sweet fix from some strawberries or an apple.
- Baked foods. Instead of frying, bread and bake dinner. It’s healthier and less messy
- Homemade pie crusts. It’s a labor of love, and kids will like to help roll and cut the dough.