You are what you eat

When I was a teenager, there was a boy in the school choir who would tease me mercilessly about being a vegetarian. Back then I was unique—the only person in my posse of friends who’d decided to save the animals, so to speak. Dave took great delight in mouthing the phrase “You are what you eat” each time I walked by. Needless to say, he didn’t discourage me. To the contrary, he made me more determined in my support for the cause—as did my mother, who predicted my demise if I continued with such a diet.

Years later, with the importance of “gut health” coming to the fore,
I’m reminded more than ever that my well-being is linked to what I eat. Today’s research is clearly showing how the trillions of microbes living in our gastrointestinal tracts can influence our kids’ immune systems, energy levels, mental health and overall well-being.

So what should our kids be eating? Here are a few you might not know that are shareworthy:

• A 355mL can of pop contains 10 to 12 teaspoons of sugar.

• Fish, chicken and other lean meats and meat alternatives such as beans and tofu are filled with protein to help keep muscles strong.

• Fruit is better than juice!

• Sports drinks are composed mostly of water, but their second biggest ingredient is sugar.

• Eating fibre makes you feel fuller and it’s healthy for your heart.

• Nutritious snacks keep you energized.

Check out some of our wise advice about optimal gut health and what to look out for on page 20 of the Fall 2018 issue at todayskids.ca.

In the meantime, I’m off for a high-fibre, vegetarian lunch. Hope you enjoy this issue of Today’s Kids, Fall 2018.

Caroline Tapp-McDougall, Editor