Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh, West Virginia University and the University of Michigan show that nearly two-thirds of mothers (72 per cent) said grandparents give their children sugary foods and drinks.

Only 51 per cent of the 126 parents surveyed addressed their concerns with the grandparents. Media outlet EurekaAlert! explained that there are several factors which inhibit this conversation:

  • “The frequency at which the grandparents and children interacted.
  • “The mothers’ dependency on grandparents for childcare.
  • “The quantity of sugary foods and beverages provided by grandparents.
  • “The strength of the relationship between mothers and their children’s grandparents.”

Genaro Romo, a Chicago-based dentist and spokesperson for the American Dental Association (ADA), “I have many happy memories of raiding the candy jar at my own grandparents’ house, and as a parent, I’ve hesitated with some of these talks myself. Yet, cavities are the most common chronic childhood disease and can cause undue pain, as well as issues with speaking, eating, playing and learning. Over time, in addition to dental health concerns, a diet with excess added sugars puts kids at higher risk of cardiovascular disease and obesity, among other health concerns.”

The ADA says that the more a child is exposed to sugary treats, the higher the risk for tooth decay.

Mary Hayes, a pediatric dentist and ADA spokesperson, said, “There is nothing sweeter than the relationship between children and grandparents. Have the ‘treats in moderation’ conversation, encourage water or milk versus juice or soda, and if offering a treat, opt for plain chocolate because saliva washes it out of the mouth more easily than sticky or hard candies.”

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