Are Your Children Always Hungry?

By Donna Stark

Do you always seem to find your children foraging through the pantry? Are they constantly checking the refrigerator to see if you put anything new in it? If your children are eating you out of house and home, and if you are running to the grocery store every other day, you may be wondering what you can do. Well, here are a few ways to keep your pantry stocked and your ever-hungry children satisfied.

Make Sure Meals Are Filling

If your children aren't eating enough during your mealtimes, the odds of them coming back to snack later in the day are great. Make sure your meals are filled with nutrient-dense foods that are both satisfying and filling. Pile on those vegetables, add some whole grains, and avoid junk food to ensure your children stay fuller for longer.

Make Sure Hunger Isn't Thirst

It's easy to confuse thirst with hunger, so make sure your children aren't just thirsty. Encourage them to drink the recommended amount of water each day and see if that doesn't make a difference in their snacking habits. If they put up a fight about the taste of water, or its lack of taste, offer to infuse it with fruit or mint.

Make Sure They Aren't Eating Their Emotions

Did you think you were the only one grabbing that pint of ice cream when upset? Well, you're not because kids engage in emotional eating too! They could be struggling to get through their day or completely bored out of their minds. Whatever the case, it is important to understand the reason for their endless snacking and to provide alternative solutions.

Make Sure They Like What You Serve

Yes, children can be picky, but you should still try to serve the foods they enjoy if you want them to eat enough at each meal. However, that doesn't mean they get to choose cookies and chips all the time. A healthy diet is critical for their overall well-being, so be sure to keep it nutrient-rich. A great way to encourage your children to eat well is to let them help plan the weekly menu. 

Satisfying the Hungry Children

Satisfying your children and filling their bottomless pits may seem like an overwhelming challenge, but with a few tweaks to their meals and some alternative strategies to help fight their boredom and emotions, you may be able to get back to your once-a-week shopping trip! Doesn't that sound like a good goal to shoot for?

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Brentwood, Tenn.