Should parents let children have sweets and sodas regularly?

Luis (No)

One of the most irresponsible things any parent can do with their children is allow them to have sweets and sodas regularly, considering the negative consequences they could suffer in the future. This includes obesity, which is connected to a wide variety of other health issues, such as, but not limited to, heart disease or diabetes and also various types of cancer.

Another reason why the regular consumption of sodas and sweets is bad for kids is the risk of developing dental issues. After all, these sugary treats and carbonated beverages can cause tooth decay because of the amount of sugar. Other dental problems children can suffer from this regular consumption include gum disease and cavities.

Additionally, children could have nutrient deficiencies when consuming too much sugar regularly. Candies and sodas usually contain very few nutrients, and those who consume these products daily may not receive the proper amount of minerals and vitamins they need to grow properly. To prevent this from happening, parents can find other healthier alternatives for their kids to enjoy sweets, such as fruits or even dark chocolate.

Moreover, children can eventually suffer serious health issues when overeating sweets and sodas, creating sugar addiction. After all, consuming these products regularly can lead to dependency, eventually making it harder for children to change to healthier options. Parents should not withhold all sweets from their children, lest that causes them to binge once they’re out of their watchful eye. Kids benefit from a healthy life, which means sweets cannot be a regular part of their diet. Finding the correct balance can include enjoying candy or a soda occasionally, but never regularly. 

Maha (Yes)

As shocking as this may sound, children shouldn't be deprived of sweets and soda. Biologically speaking, sugar cravings aren't unnatural. The first meal ever for most people—breast milk—is sweet. Moreover, the human body interprets a sweet taste as being edible and energy-rich.   

Some children can also consume more sugary food than others. Casey Seidenberg, the co-founder of the nutrition education company Nourish Schools, found that children have different levels of sugar sensitivity, writing, 'Protein and healthful fats slow down the effect of sugar and simple carbohydrates, so a child eating well throughout the day might be less affected by any sugar consumed.'

Restricting children from sugary treats can also backfire. Research by the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children's Hospital uncovered that obese children are likely to have mothers who actively tried getting them to eat less junk food and used restrictive statements like 'one dessert is enough.' This is one of several ways children may develop an unhealthy relationship with food due to a sense of deprivation. Denying children their sweet cravings may further impact their social lives, as sweets and soda are integral to social gatherings such as birthdays. At least seven studies show that food restrictions lead to loneliness from not bonding over food. 

Plus, there's the risk of children eating more than they should behind their parents' backs. After all, in today's connected world, it's harder to shield children from social media and peer pressure. So, rather than eliminating sweets and soda from children's diets, parents should teach them healthier eating habits. And most importantly, pay attention to their sugar consumption to best determine their sugar sensitivity.