Kids and Sodium: The Biggest Myths
By Sara Butler
It's pretty clear that children these days get a little too much of a lot of things. From screen time to sugar to salt, kids have to overcome obstacles when it comes to staying healthy. One of the biggest issues facing kids today is the amount of sodium they eat. Here are a few myths about sodium and the truth behind them that every parent needs to know for the health and wellness of their children.
Myth No. 1: The Health Issues Associated with Sodium Intake Only Impact Adults
You may be under the impression that high blood pressure and heart disease are conditions that only adults need to worry about. That is, unfortunately, not true. Even in children and teens, controlling sodium intake can have a huge impact on overall health and wellness.
Studies have found that kids who eat high-sodium diets have about a 35 percent higher chance of developing a high blood pressure than kids who eat less sodium each day. Plus, sodium doesn't simply impact heart health, it also can have an impact on kidney, stomach, bone, and brain health -- so it's important for even children to watch how much they get.
Myth No. 2: Kids Don't Like the Taste of Low-Sodium Foods
You can't change a person's tastes overnight, that is true. But over time you can gradually lower the sodium in your child's diet and expose them to healthy foods that will provide more nutrients their bodies need -- and they'll like it. It's true. As long as you take your time, your child can develop a taste for something other than Cheetos and soda.
Myth No. 3: The USDA's Sodium Limits are Unrealistic
The U.S. Department of Agriculture developed standards for schools to follow that reduce the amount of sodium in the meals they serve. It's been so successful that a number of schools have already met targets that they didn't need to reach for several more years.
Sodium intake is something everyone needs to be mindful of, even kids. The fact is that in the United States people eat too many highly processed convenience foods that are loaded with sodium and other unhealthy ingredients. By incorporating more whole foods and fewer processed foods, you can make a real difference in your child's health and wellness. If you need more guidance on healthy eating for your family, then talk to the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic today.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Bossier City, La.