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At Healthfully, we strive to deliver objective content that is accurate and up-to-date. Our team periodically reviews articles in order to ensure content quality. The sources cited below consist of evidence from peer-reviewed journals, prominent medical organizations, academic associations, and government data.
- American Heart Association: Dietary Recommendations for Healthy Children
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Childhood Obesity Facts
- Journal of School Health: Diet Quality and Academic Performance
The information contained on this site is for informational purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for the advice of a professional health care provider. Please check with the appropriate physician regarding health questions and concerns. Although we strive to deliver accurate and up-to-date information, no guarantee to that effect is made.
Negative Effects of Junk Food on Kids
Grain-based desserts and pizza as well as soda, sports drinks and energy drinks make up the top sources of calories for kids age 2 to 18, according to the publication "Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010." With those stats, it's not so surprising that the obesity rate in children has risen from between 4 percent and 6 percent, depending on age range, in the early 1970s to between 10 percent and 20 percent by 2008 3. A diet laden with junk food not only affects weight but other facets of a child's life, too.
Effect on Mental Health
The need for a good diet begins early. A study published in 2013 in the “Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry” examined the diet of children age 6 months to 5 years old, as well as the diet of the mother while she was pregnant 1. Researchers concluded that the diet of both the pregnant mother and the child after birth can have an effect on mental health of the child; a diet high in unhealthy junk food and low in nutrient-dense food were linked to behavioral and emotional problems, including anxiety and depression.
Effect on Obesity and Disease Risk
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Additionally, these children consumed less milk, less fiber and fewer fruits and nonstarchy vegetables. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obese children are more likely to have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, both risk factors for cardiovascular disease 5. Additionally, obese kids are at higher risk of prediabetes, bone and joint problems, sleep apnea and social and psychological problems. Their obese status can follow them into adulthood, too.
- Additionally, these children consumed less milk, less fiber and fewer fruits and nonstarchy vegetables.
- Additionally, obese kids are at higher risk of prediabetes, bone and joint problems, sleep apnea and social and psychological problems.
Effect on Academic Performance
A diet high in junk food can hinder your child’s success in school. In 2003, researchers compared the diets of more than 5,000 students to their scores on a standard literacy assessment. They found that students who consumed a low-quality diet did worse on the standardized test. Results were published in 2008 in the “Journal of School Health.”
- A diet high in junk food can hinder your child’s success in school.
- In 2003, researchers compared the diets of more than 5,000 students to their scores on a standard literacy assessment.
Ideal Diet for Children
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The ideal caloric intake for a child varies based on gender, age and physical activity level. Generally, a girl needs between 1,200 and 2,200 from age 4 to 13. When she reaches her teen years, she needs 1,800 to 2,400 calories. These calories should be made up of foods low in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, salt and added sugars. Double-check that serving sizes are appropriate for your child's age to avoid overeating.
- The ideal caloric intake for a child varies based on gender, age and physical activity level.
- Double-check that serving sizes are appropriate for your child's age to avoid overeating.
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References
- Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: Maternal and Early Postnatal Nutrition and Mental Health of Offspring by Age 5 Years: A Prospective Cohort Study
- Pediatrics: Effects of Fast-Food Consumption on Energy Intake and Diet Quality Among Children in a National Household Survey
- U.S. Department of Agriculture: Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2010: Balancing Calories to Manage Weight
- American Heart Association: Dietary Recommendations for Healthy Children
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Childhood Obesity Facts
- Medscape: Early 'Junk Food' Exposure Risks Kids' Mental Health
- Journal of School Health: Diet Quality and Academic Performance
Writer Bio
Kelsey Casselbury is a freelance writer and editor based in central Maryland. Her clients have included Livestrong, School Nutrition magazine, What's Up? Media, American Academy of Clinical Chemistry, SmartBrief and more. She has a formal education in personal training/nutrition and a bachelor's degree in journalism from The Pennsylvania State University.