Kiddipedia
We have all heard it before, sugar is the devil – but this statement is unfounded and can actually cause more damage than good when it leads to restriction. Kids Public Health Nutritionist, Shelley Judge, is here to set the facts straight about sugar and why it should be a part of our and our kids diets in moderation!
First up let’s clear up some of the facts. All forms of sugar, be it caster sugar, brown sugar, maple syrup, honey or medjool dates – gets broken down to glucose and then further into ATP, the preferred source of energy for the vast majority of bodily processes. In fact, ATP has been nicknamed the ‘fuel of life’.
Different types of sugar do react differently in the body – for example pure glucose forms the quickest blood glucose response. BUT what is important to remember is that we rarely ingest pure forms of sugar (the only time this would ever happen is during your glucose test during pregnancy!). Even when using caster sugar in a recipe it is coupled with fibre from flour, fats and protein etc which all slow this reaction.
So why should you include any type of sugar in your kids diet this Christmas?
Teaches kids to have a good relationship with all food
One of the worst things we can do for kids is teach them that some foods are good, and some foods are bad. These associations put a moral value on foods and leave us feeling guilty when we eat the bad ones. Have you ever felt bad after eating that slice of cake you really felt like? These feelings have no place around food. Instead it is important to show kids through modelling behaviour that all foods are allowed at times in our diet and that we don’t need to earn them through exercise. So this Christmas, enjoy the cookies with your kids. They don’t need to replace your usual healthy snack or dinner, but they can be enjoyed alongside it to show that all foods have a place!
Breaks down the restriction/craving cycle
Human nature is: ‘We want what we can’t have’
When we restrict these foods all together from our or our kids’ diets, it can cause them to want them even more because it feels unattainable. When they become allowed in our diets, is when we find the balance that works for our bodies to feel their best both mentally and physically. Before your kids ask for the Christmas cookies, offer them on their plate with their usual dinner. This pre-emptive action can often lead to them eating more of their dinner because they are just wanting for the cookie that comes afterwards!
It’s delicious
No other reason than it is delicious. Not everything we eat has to be nutritious. But everything we eat, we should enjoy. Sugar is in a lot of foods that we get enjoyment from eating, and foods that are the pinnacle of cultural celebrations. Christmas is a time to remind us that food is not just to nourish our body, but it is a time to bring family and friends together over a meal or connect with your children baking in the kitchen!
So, this Christmas, let your kids enjoy the gingerbread biscuits. Serve them up with their usual snacks of fresh fruit or veggie sticks and let them learn an important lesson about food – everything is allowed!
As an expert in kids nutrition and food science, Shelley Judge is on a mission to debunk kids’ nutrition and diet culture by helping small children develop good relationships with food. Using her experience in children’s behaviour, psychology and nutrition, Shelley guides families in their kitchen, to help their children enjoy all food and present well-rounded, healthy options for them to enjoy.
