How does poor diet affect the body? - Diet & Nutrition Message Board

cram315 · 08-25-2005, 09:24 AM

I have a son who is always (always) sick. Colds, bronchitis, diarrhea, throwing up, tired, ear infections, strep throat, mono, coughing, you name it every two weeks it's something else. It gots worse as he got older. He is always at the doctors or pharmacy. He is 21.

I blame his poor nutritional habits and lack of excercise but his doctor said no.

That is why I turned to this board. He eats high fat, non-nutritional foods. He snacks on an entire sleeve of cookies at 2 am. He drinks sodas and high calorie drinks.

There are no vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fiber or excercise in his diet.

I need some web site to steer him to because he has to see it in writing to "believe" it is true.

girlygirl11 · 08-25-2005, 01:45 PM

Websites aren't allowed to be posted on the boards.

I would tend to side with you about the diet thing. He's probably a typical teen that is lacking in tons of nutrients and vitamins. To start, try to get him to take a multivitamin everyday. If you can do that, it's a step in the right direction. You should also try to get rid of a lot of the junk in your house..fill your fridge with precut/washed veggies and fruit. If he says he's hungry, offer veggies and fruit. Try to avoid buying lots of sweets, chips and pop..small steps are key to changing this slowly..

AllysHeart · 08-25-2005, 03:55 PM

Is it possible you can find one or two healthy meals he likes? Can you prepare a warm fruit dessert, such as something with apples or peaches and serve with cool whip or lite ice cream? I'm just thinking of a way to get started in the right direction. Even if it's one or two healthy foods he really likes, he might be willing to try other nutritious foods.

Also, maybe something as simple as a cold sandwich with chicken or turkey and lettuce or tomato, some "fun" black olives for popping in his mouth... Does he like baked potatoes with toppings? How about a pasta salad? Do you offer nutritious foods and he turns them down?

I agree that it would be a good gesture on your part to stop making junk foods so readily available to him. I can tell you're a concerned parent. Good luck!

ratboy83 · 08-26-2005, 10:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by girlygirl11

Websites aren't allowed to be posted on the boards.

I would tend to side with you about the diet thing. He's probably a typical teen that is lacking in tons of nutrients and vitamins. To start, try to get him to take a multivitamin everyday. If you can do that, it's a step in the right direction. You should also try to get rid of a lot of the junk in your house..fill your fridge with precut/washed veggies and fruit. If he says he's hungry, offer veggies and fruit. Try to avoid buying lots of sweets, chips and pop..small steps are key to changing this slowly..

indeed, a diet high in saturated fat and sugar is lacking in vitamins and minerals but also the combo are the worst combination for immunity.

alex.

Losec20mg · 08-26-2005, 11:15 AM

that doctor is a nerd..lol change doctor right away or have your son go see a nutrtionist instead.. trust me eating right will make an incredable diference. Doctors will never tell a person how to eat because they studied medication and, thats the way they make their money..