Let’s face it, America runs on Junkin.’ ?Our job as parents is to protect our kids, yet many people are unknowingly poisoning their children. ?Chips, soda, candy, cookies, fast food and even coffee are becoming the normal daily diet for children in America.

Eating a steady diet of processed foods not only ruins our children’s physical health, it eats away at their mental health. ?I spoke with a woman from Georgia yesterday and she said the problem is rampant in her area. ?It’s become such an issue that they’ve posted billboards with an obese child on it saying, “don’t make fun of me because I’m fat.”

A child’s self-esteem is fragile when they’re in their formative years. ?They look to us to guide them through the maze of growing up. ?It’s our job to set an example of what it looks like to live a normal, healthy and happy life. ?Junk food erodes that opportunity. ?It causes mood swings, lack of focus, low energy from eating foods with no nutrients, addiction and behavioral problems at home and in school.

If your kids are sliding down this slippery slope and you want to correct your course, try these simple tips. ?Choose one or two to start and stay with it for at least 21 days before trying something new.

• Create a unified front.?Talk to other parents and get them on board too. ?Children compare what they have with what their friends have. ?They don’t want to stand out, it’s all about blending in. ? Make it easier for them by having everyone doing the same thing.
• Transition rather than take away. ?If your kids love Doritos, switch to a corn chip that has three ingredients: corn, oil and sea salt. ?You’ll be eliminating toxic preservatives. ?And give them the recommended serving size rather than a bottom of the bag approach.
• Sweets should be a treat, not a staple. ?Once a week not every night. ?Read labels. ?It should have five ingredients or less and you should know what they are.
• If your child craves sweets, increase?fruits and?sweet vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, corn). ?If they crave salt, they may be mineral deficient (check with your pediatrician). ?Make sure they’re getting enough protein (nuts, beans, eggs, greek style yogurt, chicken, meat and fish) in their diet. ?Too little protein can trigger cravings because the body is looking for quick energy.
• Make it fun. ?Find a couple of healthier choices in any given food group and let them pick which one they want.
• Limit “gaming” time. ?Get them out in the fresh air playing. ?This will stimulate a healthy appetite.
• Start with a good breakfast. ?Throw out sugary cereals. ?Companies like?Kashi?offer a cinnamon cereal that tastes great, includes whole grains and has much less sugar.

Small steps create big results. ?There may be pushback, but remember you’re the parent.