Often we ask ourselves whether the food choices we make can affect our health. And, everyone at some point realizes that their diet plays an important role in how they look and feel. With that in mind, how often and to what extent do we take steps to ensure that our children’s nutritional needs are met?
As parents, we have the utmost intention of caring for our children and strive to keep them safe from harm. But, often we find ourselves struggling to make that one fundamental step in developing a healthy diet for our children. A fuller understanding of what’s appropriate to nourish a growing body and mind can be a little confusing, particularly when we are constantly exposed to foods through media ads that are designed to appeal to a healthy culture but, in fact, deliver an unhealthy blow to our children.
It’s important to recognize that what may be the best nutrition and diet for you as an adult, is not necessarily the right balance for your child.
Many parents face long hours of work and commute times that are often deterrents to the traditional sit-down, nutritious home-cooked meals. Instead, we may be more likely to grab take out, or convenient packaged foods that may not be as nutritionally balanced as our children need for healthy minds and bodies.
There are many web sites that offer helpful information in developing a better understanding related to a child’s nutritional requirements. If you have a concern, or special need, please follow up with your family doctor to get a medical assessment.
Here are a couple sites that will provide simple tips to help you on your way.
The MyPlate Daily Checklist (formerly Daily Food Plan) shows what and how much your child should eat to meet his or her needs. Checklists are based on average needs by age and activity level, so you should use the Checklist as a general guide. http://www.choosemyplate.gov
Meal planning doesn’t have to be intimidating, and you’re going to learn the essentials of putting together a healthy one week menu for your family. http://stupideasypaleo.com
Thoughtfully plan paleo and gluten free “real food” weekly menus using a printable grocery list that gives step-by-step prep-day instructions. http://prepdish.com
