Fruit juice, soda and lollies: Say no to these foods in your child’s lunchbox

Paediatric dietitian Dean Paningbatan warns that frequent sweets and junk food in early childhood can create unhealthy eating habits that are hard to break as kids grow.

Paediatric dietitian Dean Paningbatan warns that regularly giving children sugary foods makes them see it as “normal.” Parents should keep offering healthy options, as repeated exposure helps build lasting good eating habits. Credit: Pexels by Ryshys S

Key Points

• Dean Paningbatan is a paediatric dietitian at Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney, specializing in nutrition for children with diabetes. He holds a double degree in Exercise and Sport Science and Nutrition from the University of Sydney and has been an Accredited Practising Dietitian since 2012. Dean is also a recognized expert with the Filipino Australian Diabetes Support Network on Facebook.
• According to a paediatric dietitian, a child’s lunchbox should be balanced with whole grains, vegetables, fruit, dairy, and protein—served in appropriate portions. Everyday foods should be distinguished from ‘sometimes’ treats, and sweets shouldn’t be used as constant rewards. It’s also important to talk to children and involve them in preparing their lunch.
• According to Dr. Catharine Fleming, Senior cecturer in Public Health at Western Sydney University, high consumption of ultra-processed foods—especially those high in sugar and salt—is linked to childhood and adult obesity. A child’s diet during their toddler years plays a crucial role in their long-term health.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

Fruit juice, soda and lollies: Say no to these foods in your child’s lunchbox

SBS Filipino

09:54Filipino

Usapang Parental' is SBS Filipino's segment on parenting. It features the stories of migrant families, parenting issues, raising kids, and parenting tips and advice from experts.

I tell parents: if kids have sugary drinks and snacks every day, they see it as normal, making healthy habits harder later. Start simple make water the main drink and limit packaged snacks to one, with the rest fruit and dairy.

Dean Paningbatan, Paediatric dietitian Sydney, Australia

📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino

🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website live stream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.

📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.

📣 Follow Us on Social Media – Stay updated by following us on Facebook and Instagram.