The 7 worst summer foods for kids

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Hot Dogs

Since they're filled with sodium, they zap water from kids' bodies-and up children's chances of dehydrating. Plus, those wieners are stocked with saturated fat, which is a factor in causing heart disease, even in tiny tickers. Another reason to ditch dogs: One study found that children who eat more than 12 hot dogs per month are significantly more likely to develop childhood leukemia than their weiner-eschewing ... more 

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Hot Dogs

Since they're filled with sodium, they zap water from kids' bodies-and up children's chances of dehydrating. Plus, those wieners are stocked with saturated fat, which is a factor in causing heart disease, even in tiny tickers. Another reason to ditch dogs: One study found that children who eat more than 12 hot dogs per month are significantly more likely to develop childhood leukemia than their weiner-eschewing counterparts.

Smart swap: Chicken apple sausages, suggests Crandall. They're made with lean meat that's lower in fat, calories and salt. The sausages also contain bits of real (and really nutritious) apple, which add a touch of sweetness that most kids love.

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