Breakfast cereal and Saturday-morning cartoons — two of life's sacred things. But the uncomfortable truth is that, other than the milk, not much in the way of nutritional value is likely to be floating around in the bowl.
Consumer Reports released alarming new findings that show a serving of 11 breakfast cereals have more sugar than a glazed doughnut. Cap'n Crunch scored the worst.
Sugary cereal isn't exactly new, but putting it side by side a sugar-glazed doughnut boldly makes the point. And while there's no shortage of healthful cereals like Cheerios and Kix, they're not the ones most kids want to eat. Beyond the sugar, there's the bright colors, the cereal personalities, alluring TV ads and, let's not forget, the prize inside.
The real message, though, is the need for greater parental awareness. Reading the back of the cereal box isn't just to pass the time at the kitchen table. Looking for sugar, fat, sodium and other nutritional content is key before making the purchase. And teaching kids, by example, to love foods that aren't made up of half their weight in sugar (as is the case with the aforementioned 11 cereals).
But it's also about consistency, especially considering the rise in childhood obesity. Locally, a group dubbed HEALTHI Kids is pushing for countywide nutritional standards for cafeterias and vending machines. Healthy eating habits must be carried throughout the day — not just in the cereal bowl at home but in cafeteria lunches and so on.
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Tip of the Day 10
For indoor play, ask your child to make a shape with their body: round, flat, tall etc.
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Tip of the Day 4
For a healthy snack, add low-fat cheese to whole-grain crackers. A serving of cheese is 1 ounce: about the size of two dominos. Six medium-size crackers are one serving.
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Tip of the Day 1
Use low-fat milk instead of whole. It's better for your child and tastes good too
Tip of the Day 3
Start small. This week, provide a healthy after-school snack like an apple instead of one high in sugar or fat.
Tip of the Day 11
Ask your child to move and sound like an animal. Take pictures.
Tip of the Day 9
Play “Simon Says.” Let your kids tell you what to do.
Tip of the Day 5
All forms of fruit count-- fresh, frozen, canned, dried or 100% juice. They make easy, healthy snacks too!
Tip of the Day 2
Bright colored foods make meals more fun. Add orange and purple fruits and vegetables to make the table more colorful.
Tip of the Day 12
Dance, dance, dance as a family.
Tip of the Day 8
Make your own Twister game using throw rugs or hand towels on the floor.
It’s hard to tell how much we’re eating when we’re distracted by the TV. Don’t snack while watching shows.
Kids learn from their parents. If you eat fruits and veggies, so will they.