KIDSNutrition claims, checked
Sugar, milk, juice, supplements, fussy eating and starting solids. Common food claims for babies and kids, checked against the evidence.
12 claims checked: 0 supported, 7 mixed, 5 not supported.
NutritionMixedIce cream and sugary drinks cause tooth decay faster than other foodsSugar is a main cause of tooth decay, and sugary drinks are a clear culprit. But the research on hand doesn't compare…NutritionNot supportedPicky eating in toddlers means a nutrient deficiencyPicky eating is normal in toddlers and does not on its own mean a nutrient deficiency. Deficiencies show up mainly in…NutritionNot supportedKids need vitamin supplements to stay healthyMost healthy kids who eat a varied diet don't need vitamin supplements. Some children do need them, such as newborns…NutritionMixedOrganic food is healthier for childrenOrganic diets lower pesticide traces in children's urine. But studies haven't shown that this makes children…NutritionMixedToddlers need cow's milk to grow strong bonesToddlers need calcium for strong bones, and dairy is a good source. But cow's milk itself isn't essential. Other foods…NutritionNot supportedFruit juice is a healthy drink for toddlersJuice isn't a healthy staple for toddlers. Paediatric guidance says it offers no nutritional benefit over whole fruit…NutritionMixedCarrots improve children's eyesightCarrots are good for eyes because the body turns their beta-carotene into vitamin A, which eyes need. But the guidance…NutritionMixedBreastfed babies have higher IQsBreastfed children score a few IQ points higher on average, but the gap shrinks when mothers' own IQ is taken into…NutritionNot supportedRaw milk is healthier for kids than pasteurised milkRaw milk has not been shown to be healthier for kids. Health guidance says pasteurised milk gives the same benefits…NutritionNot supportedSugar makes kids hyperactiveBlinded trials found sugar does not change children's behaviour. A trial also showed parents' expectations can shape…NutritionMixedSugar in early childhood causes lasting health harmEvidence points to early sugar, especially in drinks, raising later risks like obesity and liver disease. But most…NutritionMixedCutting sugary drinks reduces childhood obesityKids who drink more sugary drinks tend to have higher body weight, and Australian health advice is to limit them. But…