The Effects of Eating Chocolate on a Toddler's Behavior

Nutrition is a priority for parents of toddlers, but it can often be difficult to persuade infants to eat healthy meals and snacks. Typically, toddlers are attracted to sugary treats such as chocolate, and as they become increasingly independent and vocal, this can turn into a battle of wills between parent and child.

  1. Normal Toddler Behavior

    • It is normal for a toddler to have tantrums.

      Some toddlers are more boisterous and temperamental than others. According to BBC Health, most toddlers go through phases of being hyperactive, disobedient and stubborn, which are normal stages of development. Toddlers are learning to become more independent, trying to understand rules, boundaries and new concepts, and constantly facing new challenges, so it is natural for them to react to these changes in ways that could be misconstrued as misbehavior at times.

    Hyperactivity

    • Parents often blame chocolate and other sugary snacks for their children's hyperactivity or bad behavior. In 1973, allergy specialist Benjamin Feingold suggested that sugar, additives and artificial coloring could cause or worsen hyperactivity in children. According to the Baby Center website, however, the majority of subsequent research hasn't been able to back up his theory. Some studies have established a link between hyperactivity and food additives, coloring and preservatives, but not sugar.

    Food Allergies and Intolerances

    • Lactose-intolerant children should avoid all foods containing milk.

      While chocolate should not cause behavioral problems in the majority of toddlers, if a child is lactose intolerant or allergic to milk, eating chocolate could make him uncomfortable, leading to irritability and mood swings. It is important to be aware that cheese and yogurt, which are considered healthy foods for infants, have far higher levels of milk than chocolate and as such should also be avoided, if a toddler is lactose intolerant or allergic to milk.

    Health Concerns

    • Fresh fruit and vegetables are an essential part of a toddler's diet.

      While no concrete evidence exists that chocolate affects a toddler's behavior, other legitimate reasons justify limiting your child's chocolate consumption. Too much sugar can increase the risk of obesity, heart disease and tooth decay. According to Kids Health, provided your child eats plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, whole grains, unsaturated fats, she should receive all the nutrition she needs and having the occasional chocolate treat won't do her any harm.

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