5 side effects of an unbalanced diet

It is common for babies to be picky eaters and have anorexia, and most babies only like to eat meat and do not like to eat vegetables and fruits. The rich vitamins, minerals and fiber in fruits and vegetables are indispensable foods for maintaining the normal development of children; they are important auxiliary factors in the metabolic process. Over time, it will cause the baby's diet to be unbalanced, leading to the following 5 sequelae.

1. Constipation is the most common problem

Cellulose can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines and inhibit the proliferation of harmful bacteria. Insufficient fiber intake results in less solid matter remaining after digestion and absorption, resulting in reduced stimulation of intestinal motility. When intestinal peristalsis slows down, constipation symptoms such as difficulty in defecation are likely to occur. In addition to causing pain or bleeding during defecation, if feces stay in the intestine for too long, it will produce harmful toxic substances and destroy the growth environment of beneficial bacteria in the baby's intestines.

2. Obesity

A diet lacking in fiber makes it difficult to feel full, often leading to excessive calorie intake, obesity and chronic diseases in adulthood.

3. Insufficient vitamin intake

Fruits and vegetables are the main sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is related to the formation of collagen and connective tissue. It allows cells to bind tightly together. When it is deficient, it may affect the health of teeth and gums, and cause subcutaneous bleeding and body infection.

Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables are rich sources of beta-carotene, which can be converted into vitamin A in the body for use by the body. This has a lot to do with the growth and development of bones and teeth, visual function, and the integrity of skin and mucous membrane cells. When it is deficient, phenomena such as night blindness, folliculitis pilaris, physical infections may occur, and even mental development may be affected.

4. Decreased immunity

Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants (such as vitamin C and beta-carotene). When the intake is insufficient, it will not be able to fight against harmful free radicals in the body, affecting the healthy development of cells and tissues. And when the intake of nutrients is unbalanced, the immunity will be reduced, and the baby will be prone to infection and illness.

5. Leads to excessive snacking

Many babies don’t like fruits and vegetables, but prefer high-fat and high-sugar foods. Snacks high in oil and sugar will affect the appetite for regular meals and easily lead to symptoms of underweight and nutritional deficiencies; while sweet, fried and overly salty snacks will cause adverse effects such as tooth decay, obesity or heavy taste.