Common Myths of Children's Nutrition • Back to Toddlers It seems everyone is full of advice about how and what to feed your children. You are the parent and you will ultimately decide what to do (and what not to do) when it comes to feeding your children. Here is some general information that may help with the basic questions you may have. Myth: Every child should take a vitamin-mineral supplement. Fact: Most children do not need a vitamin-mineral supplement. If a child eats a wide variety of foods from all four food groups in Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating, over time they will get the nutrients they need. Teaching children to get their nutrition from a pill tells them that food is not important, and that they can rely on something in a bottle to keep them healthy. Many children (and many adults!) will have days where they do not eat a great variety of food. Over time, in most cases, children will eat enough foods to provide them with the nutrition they need. Remember, foods eaten in one single day or at one single meal do not determine a child's health. Rather, foods eaten over several days add together to provide the nutrients the child needs. Myth: It is my job as a parent to get my child to eat. Fact: It is your job as a parent to offer your child a variety of healthy foods to choose from. It is your child's job to decide how much and whether to eat the foods you offer. Children need to let their appetite guide their eating. They will eat when they are hungry, and they will stop when they are full. Your duty as a parent is to offer new foods as well as foods that are common and enjoyed by your child. Also, provide structure around mealtime by having meals at regular times, and eating together as a family. Have healthy snacks available between meals, such as fruit or cereal. A child can be trusted to listen to their appetite. Once a child is given responsibility for their eating, their nutrition will work itself out over time. Myth: Fat kids become fat adults. Fact: The rate of obesity among children and adults is on the rise in Canada. There are many possible reasons for this. If you think your child has an unhealthy body weight, a "weight loss diet" is not the best solution. It is important to offer a variety of healthy foods and encourage your child to be physically active - daily. Healthy children come in a variety of weights, shapes and sizes. Rather than focus on your child's weight on the scale, watch your child's growth over time. Many children "grow into" their weight as their height and physical activity increase. Healthy lifestyle habits are what help children have a healthy weight when they become adults. Myth: Sugar makes kids hyper. Fact: There is no research that shows hyperactivity is caused by eating too much sugar. Often, children eat foods that are high in sugar, such as candy, pop, or cake, at celebrations that make them excited and act hyper. Birthday parties, family gatherings, sleep-overs, and play time with friends are some common situations where kids eat foods that are high in sugar and may appear cranky or hyper. However, it is the situation, not the food, that affects a child's behaviour. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is not caused by kids eating too much sugar. As a parent, you want to do the best for your child. Set a good example by eating healthy and being physically active with your children. Your children will learn that a healthy lifestyle is both important and fun. For more information on myths in childhood nutrition, and for tips on developing healthy eating habits for your family, contact the Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit's Health Action Line at 1-800-660-5853 or 613-345-5685 and ask to speak to a Registered Dietitian. Dianne Oickle, MSc, RD Registered Dietitian/Public Health Nutritionist Leeds, Grenville, and Lanark District Health Unit To the top