Connecticut Ranks Among the Best States for Healthy Kids, New Study Finds

According to research presented by Juice Plus +, Connecticut is one of the best states in the country when it comes to giving little kids a healthy nutritional start in life.

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The new Childhood Nutrition Index looked at all 50 states and focused on children between the ages of 1 and 5. Researchers considered things like fruit and vegetable consumption, sugary drinks, access to nutritious food, poverty and food insecurity.

Connecticut came in fifth overall, earning a “very high” rating and scoring 29% above the national average. New England absolutely dominated the rankings, with New Hampshire taking first, Vermont second and Maine third.

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Connecticut did particularly well when it came to what kids are actually eating. About 75% of children ages 1 to 5 eat fruit every day, while 56% eat vegetables daily.

The state also scored well when it comes to sugary drinks. Only 43% of young children reportedly have a sugary drink at least once a week, which is 14 percentage points lower than the national average.

Another big factor is whether families can actually afford healthy food. The study found that 74% of Connecticut children live in households that can consistently afford nutritious food. The state also has lower-than-average rates of child poverty and food insecurity.

A registered dietitian with Juice Plus + points out that kids don't need a perfect diet. The goal is to consistently give them opportunities to develop healthy eating habits, including regular fruits and vegetables and fewer sugary drinks.

And honestly, this seems like a pretty good reminder for parents everywhere.

That's right, America: babies are not meant to grow up exclusively on Trix Yogurt and Mountain Dew. Although I'm pretty sure some of us tried to make that happen.