One of the most important things we must take care of for our children is their nutrition. You have probably heard the phrase: “we must lead by example,” and it is true; whatever you teach your little ones to eat will become their lifestyle when they grow up. If you teach them to eat healthier, stay hydrated with water, and exercise from a young age, they will surely be much happier and healthier individuals. What is the danger? Today, one in three children suffers from obesity in Mexico, making us the country with the highest childhood obesity rate in the world, which continues to rise due to several factors, such as:

The way they stay hydrated: children are consuming drinks with too much sugar
Lack of balance in their diet: they eat more sugars and fats without a counterpart of vegetables, protein, and fruit
Lack of exercise and movement: the low physical activity among children in Mexico is concerning as it not only allows them to gain weight but also prevents them from learning the importance of physical conditioning.

These statistics result in sick children who are more predisposed to suffer from diseases like diabetes and lack physical fitness.

What can we do about it? Taking care of our children's nutrition is not difficult; in fact, it only requires consistency and following some very clear guidelines that will also benefit the entire family. Here are 7 simple tips that will make a big difference in your little ones' nutrition for the better: 1.- The proper way for your child to stay hydrated is natural water; if they want something sweet, replace sugary milk drinks, juices, or sodas with calorie-free drinks like lemon water sweetened with SPLENDA®. 2.- Offer your children healthy snacks like fruit, vegetables with chili instead of sweets and chocolates. 3.- For special occasions, treat them with desserts made with SPLENDA®, delicious and with a significant calorie savings. SPLENDA® is endorsed by the Mexican Pediatrics Association. 4.- Make physical activity fun and an integral part of family life. For example, go for walks, take the stairs when possible, ride bikes or skate on weekends, or play in the park. These are simple activities that bring the family together and promote movement. 5.- Remember that there are no bad foods, just excess is the problem. Reduce the portions of their favorite foods like nuggets, pizza, or hamburgers. You don’t have to remove them from their menu; just make sure to balance and complement them with vegetables. 6.- Invite your children to cook with you; they will have fun together and learn to eat healthily for life. 7.- Teach by example; your children will always emulate you, which is why you must show them through actions that eating healthily and exercising is important. Don’t forget that at Kiwilimón you can find delicious and healthy recipes for children that will allow them to enjoy your cooking without taking away their love for food. Here are some preparations that they will surely love: Sweet Potato Fries Vegetable Patties Fun Vegetable Soup Lemon Popsicles with Fruits Mango and Lemon Granita