Early puberty is defined by the onset of sexual development signs in girls before 8 years old and in boys before 9 years old. This condition can lead to accelerated bone age, reduced growth potential, psychological impacts, and an increased risk of metabolic and endocrine disorders in adulthood.

Nguyen Thi Thu Huyen, a specialist from the Department of Nutrition at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, advises children to maintain a balanced diet across food groups, a healthy weight, at least 60 minutes of daily exercise, and adequate sleep. Limiting certain food groups is crucial to help reduce the risk of early puberty.

Sugar-sweetened beverages, including soft drinks, milk tea, bottled fruit juices, and energy drinks, contain high amounts of sugar. Regular consumption increases the risk of overweight and obesity, which can lead to insulin resistance and metabolic disorders. Obese children face a higher risk of early puberty compared to those with a healthy weight, particularly girls. Therefore, limiting high-sugar beverages is a crucial measure to manage this risk.

Foods high in saturated fats and trans fats, such as fried chicken, French fries, pizza, hamburgers, sausages, and bacon, are typically rich in energy and salt. Frequent consumption of these items can lead to excess energy intake, rapid weight gain, and fat accumulation. This excess fat can alter hormone activity in the body, contributing to early puberty.

Dishes like fried chicken and French fries often contain high energy, saturated fats, trans fats, and salt. Photo: Thuy Hanh.

Deep-fried foods provide many calories but few vitamins and fiber. Regular consumption, especially in large portions, can lead to excess energy, weight gain, and visceral fat accumulation in children. Parents should prioritize cooking methods such as steaming, boiling, pan-frying, or baking over deep-frying.

Some parents purchase advertised products claiming to boost children's height, weight, or development without a doctor's prescription. Specialist Huyen advises against the unsupervised use of hormone-containing products or active ingredients that affect the endocrine system. Children should only take medications, vitamins, or supplements under the guidance of healthcare professionals.

Thuy Hanh