Nutrition Myths Vs. Facts: Diet Tips That Parents Should Stop Believing in 2025

Every couple of years, diet fads and tips keep changing. Twenty years ago, having 2 glasses of milk every day was considered the highest standard of nutrition for a child. However, today that no longer holds true. With more research and information, our patterns of beliefs are constantly challenged and modified. We may be tuned to carry forward what we practiced as children, but with the overload of information available, it is not easy to understand what is nutritious for children and what is not. Add to that a good dose of social media influence and parents are thoroughly overwhelmed, unable to discern which is a fact and which is just a fad.

Nevertheless, parents keep learning and trying to get it right because children’s nutrition is vital. It affects their growth, immunity, and long-term health. In this blog, let’s bust some nutrition myths and look at what parents should focus on.

Myth 1: Milk is the only source of calcium for strong bones

Fact: Jumping straight into the number 1 myth. Milk is a reliable source of calcium, but it is not the only source that children need to depend on. With many children showing signs of lactose intolerance, it is necessary to know which alternatives can be equally advantageous to their diet. Green leafy vegetables like molokhia and spinach are rich in calcium. Sesame seeds and almonds are also great choices. If your child enjoys milk, there is no harm in giving them a glass or two. However, try to incorporate these foods into their diet to ensure calcium intake from multiple sources, guaranteeing stronger bones and better digestion.

Myth 2: Packaged juices and flavored yogurts are healthy snacks

Fact: We believe that juices and yogurts are cooling and hydrating. When children opt for them as compared to fried snacks and chips, parents might think they are picking the healthier option. However, these are what we call unhealthy “healthy” foods for children. Most of these packaged juices and yogurts are full of sugar and artificial additives, contributing to poor dental hygiene and even obesity. Instead, offering them fresh fruits, homemade juices, and plain yogurt with natural toppings like berries, dry fruits, or honey are safer options. At least here we know the exact ingredients that children are snacking on, keeping them away from added sugars and preservatives.

Myth 3: Ghee (clarified butter or samneh) makes children fat

Fact: This is not just a myth in children's diets but is also popular among adults who believe that ghee is fat that adds to body weight. A staple in many traditional recipes; ghee was slowly demonized by industries that started selling substitutes in the form of processed oils. However, recent studies have suggested that a moderate amount of ghee is actually beneficial. Ghee is rich in healthy fats, and for children, it helps with brain development, immunity, and digestion. It also enhances the flavors in foods, making it a favorite for many children. Keep in mind portion control and let them enjoy some traditional dishes.

Myth 4: Vegetarians cannot get enough protein

Fact: Many families believe that children will not get enough protein if they eat only vegetarian foods. This is far from the truth. Chickpeas, lentils, soya, paneer, kidney beans are excellent sources of protein. When paired with carbohydrates like rice and breads with added nutrients and minerals from vegetables, it makes for a completely nutritious meal. So, if your child is not keen on non-vegetarian foods, give them plant-based options that do the job equally well.

Myth 5: If a child is not over or under weight, their diet is perfect

Fact: A child’s outward appearance does not always reflect their inner health. For instance, an extremely thin child is not under nourished, and a slightly chubby child is not fat or unhealthy. Despite the weight, any child may lack essential nutrients like B12, vitamin D, or iron. Providing a balanced diet can ensure that children meet age-appropriate nutritional requirements. Parents can also opt for routine check-ups to keep track of a child’s overall well-being.  

Building Healthier Food Habits in 2025

While modern lives are complicated and full of information, parents can set a filter when it comes to their child’s nutrition. For starters, our traditional culture, ways of preparing food, and knowledge passed down through generations is a gold standard to abide by. Most families always looked to their kitchens for seasonal recipes and for quick remedies in times of sickness. Keeping our traditions close can keep us healthy. In addition, verify information that you receive with your own research. Avoid blindly following tips from the Internet or social media. It may be useful to have 1 or 2 reliable sources of information that you can bank on. Furthermore, as parents, trust your instincts as no one else knows your child better than you. Their food patterns, likes and dislikes, nutritional deficiencies must all be considered while trying to incorporate healthy food habits.

At Dibber, we believe in nurturing healthy habits from an early age by offering children wholesome, balanced meals every day. The Dibber Meal^TM is carefully planned to ensure the right mix of nutrition, variety, and taste—helping children build a positive relationship with food while supporting their overall development.