Some doctors say one of the most common questions they’re getting lately is whether or not to give kids fruit.
Online debates on Reddit have also touched on the topic.
“The issue is not enough. So I don’t want to hear of, like, you know, restricting fruit. Usually kids aren’t getting enough fruit,” Children’s National Hospital pediatrician Dr. Gabrina Dixon said.
Dixon is encouraging parents to squeeze more fruit into their kids’ diets, not less.
“This topic has been coming up, with people saying not to give fruit because of the sugar, and I really do think it’s confusing. It is not the same sugar that is added to candies and sodas. It’s completely different,” she said. “We say three to five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.”
Along with vegetables and proteins, she said there are several steps parents can take to ensure their child is getting the right nutrients.
“Just making sure we’re discussing with the school, like, ‘Hey, is my kid eating? How is it going at school?’” she said. “Sometimes what also helps is having the kid involved in the meal prep.”
You can also try smoothies to sneak in the essentials.
“Just figuring out ways that make it fun for the kids to still eat fruit,” she said.
If you’re struggling to figure out the best meal options for your child, you can also consult a nutritionist or dietitian, Dixon said.
Learn more about the services offered by Children’s National online. Specialty programs “are by referral only, and outpatient nutrition clinics are available at the main hospital and various satellite offices conveniently located throughout D.C., Maryland and Virginia.”
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