Many foods specifically manufactured for and marketed to children are lacking in nutrients, are full of sugar and highly processed. Children are missing out on essential nutrients needed for proper growth and function by eating these foods on a regular basis.

Breakfast Cereals

Some breakfast cereals marketed to kids are the equivalent of eating cake for breakfast. Even the cereals labeled whole grain can be full of sugars and empty calories with only a small amount of fiber added. Check the ingredient label and make sure that sugar or any other name for sugar, such as high fructose corn syrup, is not in the top three ingredients.

Hot Dogs

Highly processed meats like hot dogs and bologna contain nitrites, which are linked to an increased cancer risk. Increased consumption of red and processed meats is also associated with an increased risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. They are also high in sodium and saturated fats and often come served with additional high sodium condiments and a white bun made of enriched flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients.

Chicken Nuggets or Chicken Fingers

Chicken nuggets or fingers are common for children and available on most restaurants kids’ menus. Chicken nuggets from popular fast food chains often contain 20 or more ingredients and are fried in oil with additives such as dimethylpolysiloxane, an antifoaming agent. Healthier versions of chicken strips can be made at home by coating chicken breast in egg and whole grain breadcrumbs or crushed cereals and baking until crisp.

Hard Candies and Lollipops

Hard candies and lollipops are essentially just sugar and artificial colorings and flavors. They are harmful to teeth because they stay in the mouth for extended periods of time and may cause caries or cavities. Hard candies are especially bad news for children with braces, retainers or fillings, as these may become damaged or dislodged.

 Sugary Drinks

One of the worst things for children isn’t actually foods but drinks, and not just colas and fruit punch. Juices and sports drinks also contain high amounts of sugar and empty calories. It might come as a surprise that some fruit flavored juices contain even more sugar than sodas. For children over 2 years of age, opt for low-fat, unflavored milk or water most of the time and occasionally 100 percent fruit juice.