When we raise children, we try to be good role models and teach them the basic fundamentals so that when they reach adulthood they are armed with the basic skills and upbringing for success and happiness in the big world.
Along with teaching good manners, and the importance of working hard and getting a good education, we need to teach children the importance of respecting their bodies and eating nutritionally well-balanced meals just like adults.
It seems to be increasingly difficult to take care of oneself and eat properly as there are time constraints and busy schedules, but there is only one you and one life.
Healthy eating and well-being are key to doing everything else better.
Many people come to me and say that they know that they have to eat better, but what do they feed the children?
The key is to start very young, but whatever the age, better late than never, for sure.
Rule No. 1: Cake, soda, chips, etc. should be considered special treats and not staples in the pantry.
Rule No. 2: Children should learn the importance of respecting their bodies and eating nutritionally well-balanced meals just like adults.
There is definitely a wrong way and a right way to snack.
Steer
towards foods that will satisfy you and keep you feeling fuller longer.
Fruits and vegetables are always a safe bet because they are low in fat and calories. (Just be sure to avoid high-calorie dips.) Yogurt, fruit smoothies, even a slice of whole-wheat toast all make great snacks during the day. Combining lean protein, some healthy fat, and complex carbohydrates will help you feel fuller longer. Try combining different combinations of foods for variety and change!
There exists a wonderful world of whole grains, healthy fats, and fresh produce. These healthy nutrition packed foods can taste just as good as the “junk foods”! There’s more to healthy snacking than rice cakes and celery sticks. I’ve compiled a list of some really healthy indulgences that are quick and easy to grab or prepare quickly. They are full of nutrition and flavor, so everyone will be happy.
- Yogurt (live active cultures, no artificial colors)
- Nut butters
- Trail mix (no added candy, plain dark chocolate is fine)
- Variety of nuts (plain, not roasted or salted)
- Dried fruit (no added high fructose corn syrup)
- Frozen fruit
- Granola and/or granola bars
- Protein or energy bars
- Fresh fruit (ba-nanas, apples, oranges, grapes etc.)
- Fresh vegetables (broccoli, celery, carrots, cherry tomatoes, radishes, cucumbers, etc.)
- Natural Cheese
- Whole grain cereal with low-fat milk
- Whole grain crackers with sliced low-fat cheese
- Cottage cheese, Hummus
- Hot cereals (oatmeal, cream of wheat, etc.)
- Air-popped popcorn (no added artificial butter)
- Whole wheat pita with salsa, black bean dip or guacamole
- Celery sticks with peanut butter and raisins
- Canned tuna salad kits
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Yogurt and fruit smoothies
- Pickles, olives, artichoke hearts
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