High sugar and salt in children’s food prep tied to obesity and future health risks, say experts

Key Points

• Joan Brown, a beauty titlist and hands-on mother, actively teaches her daughter Audrey about a healthy lifestyle. Sweets are limited and junk food is off-limits—instilling healthy habits early to support lifelong well-being.
• According to Dr. Catharine Fleming, Senior Lecturer, Public Health, Western Sydney University, high consumption of ultra-processed foods in children—especially those high in sugar and salt—is linked to obesity in both childhood and adulthood. What children eat during their toddler years plays a crucial role in their long-term health.
• Nutrition Coach Tara Tan advises parents not to give up on introducing healthy foods to their children. Start with simple fruits and leafy greens—through smoothies, wraps, or homemade snacks. Most importantly, parents should lead by example, as children tend to imitate what they see.