40 Popular Foods Children Shouldn’t Be Fed

38. Packaged juices are full of sugar.

These seemingly innocent juice boxes are not any better than soda, as they contain just as much sugar. In fact, children may even consume more than one of these juice boxes per day, resulting in an excessive intake of sugar. Many parents opt for packaged juices because they believe they are a good source of vitamin C, thinking it balances out the sugar content. However, there are healthier alternatives to obtain vitamin C, such as offering bite-sized pieces of actual fruit that also contain fiber.

Apple juice is particularly popular among children, with parents often assuming it is a healthier choice than other beverages. However, it's important to note that apple juice contains a significant amount of fructose, which is a form of sugar. Instead of reaching for these convenient juice packs just because they say "juice," it's advisable to be cautious. Instead, consider blending fresh fruit in a blender and using a strainer to remove the pulp. One common issue with packaged fruit juices is that they often lack real fruit juice despite their misleading packaging, which can do more harm than good.

By being mindful of the sugar content in packaged juices and opting for healthier alternatives, parents can make more informed choices for their children's beverages.

Boxed macaroni and cheese is indeed a quick and popular lunch option for kids, but its popularity doesn't make it a healthy choice.