Healthy Habits for the Young Athlete

"I was eating bad stuff. Lots of sugar and carbs, junk food all the time. It makes you very irritated."

--Avril Lavigne

The average American consumes 137 pounds of sugar a year. What affect does sugar have on our bodies? Research shows that sugar can contribute to some of the following: suppress the immune system, contribute to hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, tooth decay, cancer, coronary heart disease and periodontal disease. This is just a short version of a very long list of negative consequences linked to sugar consumption.

The problem is that as Americans we over consume. There is no moderation to our diets and therefore we experience an overabundance of disease. It is important that as parents we teach the principle of moderation to our children. It is not necessarily the ingestion of sugar that is bad, but the overindulgence of sugar without limits, that creates the negative consequence on our health.

Remember to go natural. Fruit has natural sugar and it appeals to children. Give your child a variety of options to choose from with fruit. Offer it as a snack. Fruit is full of nutrients and a good source of fiber which will help your child fill full for longer.

Limit cakes, pies, donuts or any type of pastries. These foods are extremely high in sugar as well as hydrogenated oils. Do not do away with these treats completely, we don't want your child to feel deprived, but try to limit these items as much as you can.

Avoid sodas. Soda is loaded with sugar and caffeine as well. Neither are beneficial for your child. Try to encourage your child to drink water, 100% no sugar added fruit juices, sugar free kool-aid or milk.

Too much sugar can & will impact health, behavior, performance and energy.
Help your child to be his or her best, in all areas, by allowing a little sugar to go a long way.