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Why do kids have a sweet tooth?

Published in Child Development 1 min read

Kids often have a sweet tooth because it might be an evolutionary adaptation.

Here's a breakdown of why this might be the case:

  • Encourages Milk Consumption: A preference for sweet tastes encourages babies to drink more milk, which is essential for their growth and development.

  • Helped Ancestors Identify Safe Foods: According to research, a sweet tooth could have helped our ancestors avoid poisonous plants.

    • Bitterness as a Warning: Natural poisons are generally bitter.
    • Sweetness as an Indicator of Safety: Naturally sweet foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are typically safe and nutritious to eat.
  • Energy Source: Sweet foods are generally high in calories and easily digested, providing a quick source of energy for growing bodies.

In essence, a sweet tooth in children may be rooted in both nutritional needs and survival instincts developed over generations.