Children can suffer from nutritional deficiencies, increase the risk of digestive problems, cardiovascular disease, and obesity if they overuse instant noodles.
Instant noodles are popular, convenient, and have a delicious taste. But children who use instant noodles regularly can develop bad eating habits and rarely choose nutritious foods. This poses a potential risk of lacking vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
Contains bad fats
Some types of instant noodles contain trans fats. Abusing this dish for a long time increases bad cholesterol levels and reduces good cholesterol. Children are also susceptible to gaining weight but not getting enough necessary nutrients.
There is MSG
MSG contributes to the delicious taste of dishes, often found in instant noodles. Children under one year old should not eat salt, MSG, or sugar in their dishes. They are not good for children’s health and digestive system. However, not all types of noodles contain MSG. When buying food for their babies, parents should pay attention to reading the ingredients and consider the nutrient content.
Lots of sodium
Noodles often have salt content for long-term preservation. Consuming more sodium than recommended levels increases the risk of stomach cancer and cardiovascular health. Children who eat a lot of sodium cause the kidneys to overwork, releasing substances that inhibit the activity of the immune system into the body. Adults do not need to add salt to baby’s weaning food. For older children, parents should form bland eating habits for their children which will be better for their health.
High in empty calories
Instant noodles are often high in empty calories and low in essential micronutrients for the body. These empty calories can lead to weight gain and malnutrition if children consume them regularly.
Pay attention when eating
If children like to eat noodles, parents prepare them with healthy ingredients. Instead of using packaged seasonings, parents can use salt-free homemade seasoning alternatives, prioritizing healthy oils such as canola, olive, soybean…
To increase nutritional value, adults add chopped vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and peas. Thanks to that, the dish also looks more attractive and delicious. When buying instant noodles, choose products made from whole grains or brown rice because they have more fiber and nutrients. Look for noodles with minimal additives, avoid those high in sodium or MSG.
In addition to instant noodles, children have many other alternatives such as soups and rolls. However, if children love this dish, parents should limit the number of times.