Do your kids get enough nutrients in their diet? If they’re like most kids, the answer is probably no. You want your children to eat more vegetables and less processed junk, but that’s easier said than done. Getting the average kid to chow down on a serving of broccoli is a chore. Food manufacturers have built an entire industry around our kids’ penchant for sugary cereal and fast food. However, a diet of processed foods can lead to a host of problems, including hindered brain development and even behavioral issues. A study in the American Journal of Public Health found links between poor diet and the development of depression in kids and teens. So, how can you encourage your kids to eat healthier foods? One way is through presentation. A mound of plain old veggies is unappealing, whether you’re 10 years old or 40. The solution is to think of vegetables as an ingredient rather than as a stand-alone dish. Take lasagna, for instance. You can easily modify this beloved Italian dish. Instead of using lasagna noodles, slice zucchini into thin, noodle-like strips and layer them as you would typical pasta. The same can be done for other pasta dishes. Zucchini noodles made with a spiralizer — also known as “zoodles” — make a mean substitute for spaghetti. Pair them with your favorite marinara sauce or toss them in a slightly less decadent, but still delicious, alfredo. Vegetables can also be incorporated into other foods your children already know and love. Did you know you can make brownies with avocado and black beans? Slipping in a few healthier ingredients here and there can deliver the nutrients your kids need to power through a busy school week. If you want to foster long-lasting healthy eating habits, the best thing you can do is offer your child some agency. For example, saying to your child, “You can have the cauliflower or the broccoli. It’s up to you!” empowers them to make their own decision based on their preferences. Psychologists and social scientists, including the famed Dr. Maria Montessori, argue that when kids feel in charge of a decision, they are more likely to embrace the ability to choose, even if it’s between two kinds of vegetables. GET YOUR KIDS TO EAT HEALTHIER THAN EVER
John & Carmen Willeford
“I have never enjoyed exercise, but Fit Body Forever has changed that. I look forward to each new challenge. After a year, I feel so much more confident in the activities. When I begin to feel a bit frustrated, I remember it took me 67 years of minimal activity to get to where I am (or where I was a year ago). I’ve had so many positive improvements over this past year, and the next year will be even better. A huge thank-you to Steven and the awesome coaches. I’m blessed to be a part of the Daphne Fit Body Forever family!” “Several years ago, I was diagnosed with some ailments that are directly related to my exposure to Agent Orange. They include diabetes, a minor but nagging heart problem, and Parkinson’s disease (PD). The entire staff of Daphne FBF is trained and well- versed in working with seniors in general and specifically with disabilities. One of the bigger problems with PD is balance. The coaches are incredibly patient in working with this and other concerns we have as clients. This is a staff who pays close attention to the members and truly enjoy seeing us succeed. This is true not only in physical exercise, but also in diet, food preparation and purchase, and in our general well-being. Since joining FBF, I have improved my strength, endurance, and balance (at least marginally). I’m truly indebted to Steven and his staff for their dedication to me and those I train with!” –Carmen
Ultimately, as a parent, you are in control of your child’s diet. Help them explore new foods and foster a positive culinary
environment. Your kids will develop a taste for healthy eating in no time!
–John
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