#asktheexpert my child is so found of eating sweets like chocolate, lollipop , icecreams . how can I control her and how how much can I give in a day .

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Accepted Answer

Encouraging a three-year-old child to eat healthy and control their consumption of unhealthy treats like chocolates, lollipops, and ice cream can be challenging but achievable with patience and consistency. Here are some tips to help guide your child towards healthier eating habits:

1. **Lead by Example:** Be a role model by demonstrating healthy eating habits yourself. Children often mimic the behavior of their parents, so make sure to eat a balanced diet and limit your own consumption of unhealthy treats.

2. **Offer Healthy Alternatives:** Keep a variety of healthy snacks readily available, such as fresh fruits, cut-up vegetables with dip, whole grain crackers with cheese, or yogurt. Encourage your child to choose from these options when they want a snack.

3. **Limit Access to Unhealthy Treats:** Keep unhealthy snacks like chocolates, lollipops, and ice cream out of sight and reach. Instead, reserve them for occasional treats or special occasions.

4. **Set Clear Limits:** Establish clear rules about when and how often your child can have unhealthy treats. For example, you might allow one small treat per day or reserve them for weekends only.

5. **Educate About Nutrition:** Teach your child about the importance of eating a balanced diet and how different foods affect their body. Use simple language and age-appropriate explanations to help them understand why certain foods are healthier choices.

6. **Involve Them in Meal Preparation:** Let your child help with meal preparation and grocery shopping. This can help them feel empowered and more willing to try new foods.

7. **Offer Choices:** Give your child options when it comes to healthy foods. For example, let them choose between different types of fruits or vegetables to include in their meals.

8. **Praise Healthy Choices:** Encourage and praise your child when they make healthy food choices. Positive reinforcement can help reinforce good behavior.

9. **Be Patient and Consistent:** Changing eating habits takes time, so be patient and consistent with your efforts. Keep offering healthy options and limiting unhealthy treats, even if your child initially resists.

10. **Seek Professional Help if Needed:** If you're struggling to control your child's unhealthy eating habits despite your efforts, consider seeking guidance from a pediatrician or a registered dietitian for personalized advice and support.

Remember that it's normal for children to have preferences for sweet foods, but with time and encouragement, you can help your child develop a taste for healthy foods and establish lifelong healthy eating habits.