Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Excess salt may cause kidney stones in kids

As I was reading the Children's gazette published by Miami Children's Hospital, the following lines caught my attention:

"The incidence of kidney stones in children has been increasing steadily in America over the last decade..."

The first reason mentioned in the article is Salt! The article reads:

"Excess salt is contained in many foods that children love and eat now more of than ever before, such as french fries, cheeseburgers, and potato chips. In addition, with today's prepackaged, quick-meal mentality, parents may not be aware that many convenient foods such as lunch meats, packaged meals, canned soups, and sports drinks, contain high levels of hidden salts."

The other reason mentioned is dehydration as children tend to not drink enough water as they don't to take a break from play, or they don't have enough time in school, etc. Even when they do, instead of drinking water, they choose sodas and other sugary drinks instead.

The gazette is small but full of useful articles and tips. Thank you Miami Children's Hospital!
Umit

No comments: