Food marketing has a powerful effect on children – their fast food and sugary drinks are what children crave because it tastes good, and looks enticing. However, these empty calories are extremely high in saturated fats and sugar which ultimately lead to excessive weight gain and even other health problems such as heart disease or diabetes.
Unfortunately, the food that’s marketed to children is usually fast, easy, and cheaper than healthy alternatives making it the perfect treat for children to want.
These ads are effective and promote children to ask their parents to pick up these sugary snacks and even munch between meals more often. Food marketers create positive associations with these unhealthy foods to create a false positive connection with them. This in turn can harm kids in their relationship with food.
Parents need to ensure that they’re letting their kids know that these brands aren’t advertising healthy options. They also need to lead by example in order to promote healthy alternatives. Parents also need to work at not giving in to their children begging them to buy these unhealthy options just to avoid conflict. It’s better to explain why they shouldn’t trust these brands and should turn to healthier options.
Healthy Habits for Youngsters 