Why Are We So Obssessed with Sugar?

Halloween is my least favorite day of the year. As children go door to door, filling their buckets with candy, I can’t help but feel a wave of anxiety. The thought of sugar crashes and potential tooth decay triggers my protective instincts as a mother committed to keeping my son on a healthy diet. I know how addictive those treats can be and how little control kids often have over their consumption.

This concern extends beyond Halloween. Every day, I strive to educate my son about the hidden sugars in everyday foods. We’ve cut out sugary breakfast cereals, chocolate milk, and white bread—once considered harmless staples. They’re no longer innocent choices; instead, they resemble sugar-laden traps that can lead children to develop unhealthy habits they might struggle to break later in life.

And don’t get me started on sodas and fast food. These items have long been on our family’s blacklist. I believe there should be stricter regulations on the production of these ultra-processed, nutrient-deficient foods. It’s appalling that they still occupy a place in our food system.

As a parent, my child’s health and nutrition are my top priorities. Yet, in a world where healthy eating is often overshadowed, how can children learn about nutrition outside the home—at school, summer camps, and eventually as they embark on independent living?

What Can Parents Do?

Let’s start having discussion with our children about healthy food choices, setting good examples ourselves, and encouraging them to explore a variety of nutrient foods early on.

What Can Schools Do?

Schools should consider provide healthy meal options, incooprate health and wellness education, and foster an environment where healthy choices are the norm.

What Can Society Do?

As a society, we can rally for better food regulations and promote initiatives that make healthy eating accessible. Build community events that centers health and wellness and encourage participation on a dailly basis. Build a long term habit that can truly benefits our generation and beyond. 

I’d love to hear your thoughts on how to encourage children make better food choices.