We have a real problem on our hands. More and more children are becoming obese, and the numbers keep rising. Something needs to be done to reverse this trend. Two critical areas of concern are proper eating habits and adequate physical activity. There are other contributing factors, of course, but we’ll focus on the “big two”: malnutrition and inactivity.
Malnutrition can easily occur in a world where food is abundant. When macronutrient consumption is high but micronutrient intake is low, there’s a problem! Cheap, processed foods are calorie-dense but nutrient-poor, and when kids eat them daily, it leads to obesity and illness.
Ultimately, parents control what their children eat. If you don’t buy it, they can’t eat it! The goal should be to favor wholesome, natural foods and avoid processed, packaged, and refined options as much as possible. Sounds simple, but it’s not always easy. No matter how much you try to clean up their diet, kids will resist—and some will outright refuse to eat.
Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride, creator of the gut and psychology syndrome (GAPS) nutritional protocol, believes that children who are “fussy eaters” are showing signs of toxicity from their diet. They’re trapped in a cycle of addiction and dependency, much like drug addicts. Starchy carbohydrates, sugar, and processed foods all contribute to this condition.
Breaking this cycle isn’t easy, but it can be done. Start by introducing small amounts of healthy food—like homemade chicken stock—and reward each bite. A simple smile, hug, or words of praise can be enough, or you can let them play a video game for five minutes. Another spoonful earns another reward, and so on, until they finish the bowl. It takes effort and patience, but parents must take back control if they want to help their children.
To learn more about this process, read Doctor Goes On Record Regarding Picky Eaters by Becky Plotner: https://gapsprotocolhelp.com/doctor-goes-on-record-regarding-picky-eaters/
Tomorrow, we’ll explore a unique way to help kids expend more energy throughout the day. I think you’ll find it very interesting: https://theelitetrainer.com/the-growing-rate-of-childhood-obesity-part-2/