3 Nutrition Tips
Certainly! Here are three healthy nutrition tips for parents:
- Lead by Example: Children often mimic their parents' eating habits. Set a positive example by eating a variety of nutritious foods yourself. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats into your own meals. When your children see you making healthy choices, they are more likely to do the same.
- Make Healthy Food Fun: Get creative with meal preparation to make healthy foods more appealing to kids. You can involve them in the kitchen, allowing them to help with cooking or assembly. Use colorful fruits and vegetables, and present them in fun shapes or arrangements. Make healthy snacks like fruit kabobs or yogurt parfaits together. The more enjoyable and engaging you make healthy eating, the more likely your children will be willing to try new foods.
- Limit Sugary Drinks and Processed Snacks: Sugary beverages and processed snacks can contribute to excess sugar and empty calories in a child's diet. Encourage your children to drink water or milk instead of sugary sodas or fruit juices. When it comes to snacks, opt for whole foods like fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and yogurt instead of highly processed options. Keep sugary and unhealthy snacks out of the house, or reserve them for special occasions.
The proportions of foods for all of your snacks throughout the day should general follow the proportions of the Canada’s food guide plate.
What you eat on a regular basis matters for your health.
- Choose foods that have little to no added sodium, sugars or saturated fat.
- Compare the nutrition facts table on foods to choose products that are lower in sodium, sugars or saturated fat.ly follow the proportions of the Canada’s food guide plate.
Use Canada’s food guide plate as a tool to make meals that your whole family can enjoy together. Remember that:
- some people need more food than others
- younger kids may require less food, so you may need to serve a mini version of the meal
No matter the type of meal or snack, make sure half of it is vegetables and fruits.