Healthy Eating a “Family Affair”

Parents who want their kids to focus on eating healthier should skip the lecturing, and instead help by setting a good example.

“Changing the way kids eat is easier to do if the whole family is helping,” said Jennifer Lindsay, registered dietitian at Texas Children’s Wellness Center. “By learning healthy eating habits, both children and parents can shed a few pounds, prevent possible weight gain and start living better, healthier lives.”

To begin, toss out the sweets and other goodies in the pantry. Replace these with fruits, vegetables, low-fat and fat-free dairy products, and lean meats and breads. Each of these foods is chemically different, giving children different vitamins, minerals, fat and proteins. Most foods have more than one nutrient, but none have all the nutrients a body needs daily.

Eating proper portion sizes is another good practice, but most restaurant portions are larger than the body needs. Try splitting a meal or taking half of it home for later.

“Eat slowly and enjoy your food, and of course, don’t skip meals,” Lindsay said. “Skipping meals results in a higher tendency to overeat at the next meal.”

Avoid drinking sodas, fruit juice, fruit punches and sports drinks, which usually are packed with sugar and unwanted calories, advised Judy Kallus, registered dietitian at the wellness center.

“Focus on drinking about eight glasses of water a day. Sugar-free drinks are OK, too, in moderation,” she said.

– Emily Mir

Texas Children’s Wellness Center suggests replacing high-fat, high-calorie foods with healthier substitutions. Flavor and variety don’t have to be sacrificed ... be creative!

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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