40. The Truth About Ultra-Processed Foods and Your Child's Health

In this episode, Miles Hassell MD, an internal medicine physician from Portland, Oregon, dives deep into one of the most important responsibilities of parenthood—feeding your kids well. He tackles the real-life challenges families face in a world dominated by ultra-processed foods, marketing traps, and busy schedules. Learn how simple, home-cooked meals can drastically improve your child's mental and physical health, prevent chronic diseases, and build lifelong habits. From breakfast hacks to family cooking tips, this episode is a practical and inspiring guide for every parent. Key Takeaways: Feeding kids well is a moral imperative, not just a preference—it's as crucial as seatbelts and helmets. Ultra-processed foods are linked to obesity, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, poor academic performance, and chronic disease.  Kids should eat the same real food as adults—there's no need for special "kid food."  Cooking at home is key: it saves money, teaches life skills, and builds family bonds.  Start early and be strategic: gradual changes, fun family cooking, and healthy treats can transform habits. Avoid food "traps" like sugary drinks, protein bars, commercial bread, and snacks marketed as healthy. Practical meal ideas include homemade overnight whole intact grain cereals, veggie-packed frittatas, home-baked bread, and simple snacks like fruit and cheese.  Build a home culture of movement, socializing, reading, and resilience alongside nutrition.    Let's raise healthy, capable kids—one homemade meal at a time. Order your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th edition by Miles Hassell MD and Mea Hassell. https://a.co/d/blI93TT References -Ferreira, R., et al. (2024). Early ultra-processed foods consumption and hyperactivity/inattention in adolescence. https://doi.org/10.11606/s1518-8787.2024058005636 -Lane, M., et al. (2022). Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Mental Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies. Nutrients, 14(13), 2568. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14132568 -López-Gil, J, et al. (2025). Investigating the Relationship Between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Academic Performance in the Adolescent Population: The EHDLA Study. Nutrients, 17(3), 524. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17030524 More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org    Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: [email protected] Write us a letter. We love to hear from you. This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. Send questions, comments, and support to: 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229