Healthy Choices: The Processed Food Debate

12/26/24 • 10 min

Proactive Parenting with Deanna Marie Mason PhD

Today’s topic is for parents of children of every age. We are going to be talking about the exciting and controversial world of highly processed foods. Why we have them, what they are made out of, and what they do in the human body compared to unprocessed foods. So whether you have a 6 month old who you want to introduce their first solid foods, or if you’re tackling the issues of a toddler who is a picky eater, or are trying to find interesting foods to pack in your kiddo’s lunchboxes, or have teens with ravenous appetites, today’s talk will give you more information to make the right choices for your family.

Previous Episode

Active Kids: Finding the Right Balance

In my time working with parents, a lot of parents have asked if their child is getting enough exercise.

It’s a real and honest question in today’s busy life. Everyone knows exercise is great for weight management, strong bones and muscles, good posture, and heart health. Everyone also knows that exercise is good for our bodies and minds. However, it can be hard to carve out time for exercise, especially when our kids are so busy with school, clubs, and activities. It can be even more difficult to determine how much exercise a child needs to stay healthy when they have so many different activities running simultaneously. The good news is, there are resources available to help parents know how much exercise is needed as well as what type. Together, this helps families create an environment where children are entertained and having fun while getting their appropriate amount of exercise.

Next Episode

Protecting Our Kids: The Truth About Vaccines

I’m going to touch on a hot-button issue today that I know is very controversial - vaccines. Before I start, I want to clarify my position as an educator to avoid anyone reading anything into what I want to say about vaccines. As most of my listeners know, I base all my podcasts, books, workshops, programs, and courses on current research, best practice policies by leading health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control, the World Health Organization, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the European Pediatric Association and a firm understanding of developmental pediatrics. I have no personal gripe with the medical establishment, holistic medicine, or scientific process. My position on vaccines as a PhD prepared researcher and certified pediatric nurse practitioner is guided by top-tier peer-reviewed scientific research and my knowledge of the dangers of childhood illnesses, such as diphtheria, polio, measles, rubella, that are prevented with vaccines. I have no agenda beyond wanting to give accurate, unbiased information so you can make the best decision for your child. So, if you have a different perspective on this issue, that is okay. A human right we all have is the right to use the information we choose to when making decisions. You may choose to use and trust different sources. The information that is going to be discussed here today is based on research that has been published in peer-reviewed journals, that has been replicated and validated multiple times. It is at your discretion to consider this information or ignore it. My goal is to share what is published in the scientific literature so you have the most up-to-date information available.

With that said, I’ll continue...

Research continues to confirm the findings of past studies showing that the measles, mumps, and rubella, or MMR, vaccine does not raise the risk of autism, even among children who are at increased genetic risk. These recent studies, plus miríada of multiple previous studies, have shown that there is no link between the MMR vaccine, nor any vaccine, and autism.

Proactive Parenting with Deanna Marie Mason PhD - Healthy Choices: The Processed Food Debate

Transcript

Hello and welcome to another episode of Proactive Parenting. Remember, this is a judgement-free space to learn how to raise value-driven kids in a way that is right for your family, using the most current scientific research out there.

I’m your host, Dr. Deanna Marie Mason. I’m a certified pediatric nurse practitioner, published author, and a professional who has devoted my career to studying and using child development to help parents manage childhood issues.

So, grab a cup