Tips for Healthy Family Eating
By Sara Butler
When you’re trying to feed a crowd, more often than not someone is going to be unhappy with what is being served. You’ll always have a picky eater or one that just decided they don’t like peas, but you can’t let that set you back. You and your family deserve the best, healthiest food possible. So, here are a few tips to help you keep your family eating healthy while still having fun!
Get Everyone Involved
If you have picky eaters that are resistant to trying new things, get them involved. Take them to the store with the sole purpose of picking out one new thing on their own they want to try – but keep it in the produce section. Have them pick a fruit or vegetable that is appealing, then work together when you get home to prepare it in a healthy way.
Choose Whole Grains
Whole grains are an important part of a healthy diet for the whole family, so include as many options as you can. Some whole grains often enjoyed by every member of the family include:
- Whole wheat bread
- Oatmeal
- Whole grain cereal
- Popcorn
- Brown rice
Whole grains help to keep everyone feeling fuller for longer and are important for digestive health.
Start Healthy Habits Early
It’s important to make sure you start talking to your kids about healthy food choices and healthy habits early in life. You can do this by setting a good example for them and involving the entire family in lifestyle changes and even bringing them into the kitchen so they can see how you create healthy meals.
Encourage Healthy Snacks
It’s worthwhile to create a rule in your home that encourages healthy snacking. Provide unlimited vegetables and fruits to your children. Cut up some vegetables beforehand and store them in the refrigerator so the kids can grab and go. They’re more likely to eat things if they’re already prepared and available.
Pledge to Reduce Sodium
Salt can be very sneaky, so learn how to reduce sodium in your family’s diet and then take action. Most sodium comes from prepackaged, highly processed foods and from restaurants, so recognize that you need to cut back on both those options in order to cut back on salt.
Feeding your whole family something healthy doesn't have to be complicated. Simplify and follow our tips!
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