Children and chocolate

Just after we have said farewell to Christmas, it seems Easter is knocking at the door. I resisted hot cross buns until March (it just doesn’t seem right to be eating them in January). Chocolate though, well let’s not discuss that. Let’s talk about what Easter might look like for your toddlers and how much chocolate is a good idea.

Personally, I tried to avoid all sweets, lollies and chocolates for my babies (they thought carrot sticks were a really cool reward for quite some time) but when friends and grand parents are around, it is almost impossible, especially if you don’t want to become the strict parent spoiling everyone’s fun.

Having said that, there are some considerations to think about around chocolate at easter and sweet foods in general.

The information is wide and varied but many mention the following; food allergy, obesity and diabeties risks.

Chocolate itself may not be a common allergen but the nuts and other ingredients it contains may be. Milk should be avoided until 1 year of age and as chocolate contains milk, it is probably best that parents consume any eggs given to children less than 1 year old.

It seems dentists agree that chocolate is preferable over hard lollies and toffees, because it melts away quickly and doesn’t sit on young teeth for prolonged periods. Cleaning teeth after sweets and chocolate where practical is helpful.

Obesity I think speaks for itself. Some studies have shown a correlation between giving sweet foods early and later obesity but I suspect this is in conjunction with an overall diet that is less than ideal. A couple of treats here and there will not cause obesity – especially if kids are active and running around madly all over the yard or park on an easter egg hunt.

Chocolate and sweet foods are not a cause for diabetes (it is a metabolic disorder) but diabetics have strict guidelines for the amount of sugar, among other things, they are allowed in their diet.

In a nutshell, we all should enjoy a healthy, balanced diet with lots of good food and enjoy treats on occasion.

Have a great Easter.
Kathy

Kathy Collins 
RN.CM.ECHN
Sleep solutions for your family
☎ 0402 244 538
🖱[email protected]
💻www.babysleepwell.com.au

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