Many factors can affect a
child's behavior, including food. Food can alter a child's energy
level, mood, and ability to concentrate. When blood sugar is
inconsistent throughout the day, it could send kids on an emotional
rollercoaster. A good way to curve blood sugar fluctuation is to
maintain a good balance of protein and fiber. In addition to healthy
meals, snacks such as hummus and crackers, apples and peanut butter,
cheese and whole grain crackers, and veggies are great options.
When
choosing healthy meals for kids, be sure to differentiate between
snacks and treats. Teach them that snacks are "fuel food" that keeps
them going throughout the day. Treats are special occasions that can be
enjoyed in moderation and not everyday! Too much sugar can cause kids
to become overly energized until they turn grumpy and tired. Aura's two
fun questions to ask children when choosing whether to have a snack or
treat are "Does it grow? And is it a color of the rainbow?"
Getting
kids involved in activities around food is another great way to
encourage healthy eating to maintain good behaviors. Allow kids in the
kitchen during meal prep. Kids can open the ingredients, chop vegetables
with a butter knife, stir any sauces, tear lettuce, or toss the salad.
Not only does this make kids feel involved, it allows the adult in the
room to take notice of which foods kids gravitate towards.
Lastly,
when considering the different foods kids consume on a daily basis, it
is important to notice if food sensitivity is causing a behavior/mood
switch. Sensitivities can interfere with attention to detail, energy
levels, skin reactions, sleeping habits, and mood stability. If you
begin to notice any of these signs, try removing a particular food for a
test period and continue with different foods until you discover the
source of the sensitivity.
It is important to understand that everything we put into our mouths becomes a part of our bloodstream, so think healthy!
