Sugar Everywhere: How Kids Are Caught in a Sweet Trap

Kids are drowning in sugar, and it's not their fault. Sugar is everywhere, hiding in foods you'd never expect. It's in bread, yogurt, even tortillas. Parents are fighting a losing battle. They want their kids to eat healthy, but sugar is the default. It's not just about saying no to candy. It's about avoiding processed foods, which is hard. These foods are cheap, easy to find, and quick to prepare. For many families, especially those with less money, this is the reality. They can't just switch to whole foods overnight.The problem is bigger than parents. It's about the food environment. Kids see ads for sugary foods everywhere. Schools and child-care centers serve foods high in sugar. It's no wonder kids are eating so much of it. But it doesn't have to be this way. Policymakers can help. They can restrict ads for sugary foods. They can make school meals healthier. They can change farm policies to support fruits and vegetables instead of sugar. It's not about blaming parents. It's about changing the system. Making healthy foods the easy choice. Giving kids a fighting chance.