The Academy of Nutrition Dietetics holds National Nutrition Month annually in March to focus on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity rates have doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents in the past few years. Obesity in children and adolescents increases their chances of becoming obese in adulthood.
During the month of March, celebrate National Nutrition Month by educating your children early on the importance of a healthy lifestyle. Creating an environment where your kid can make healthy nutritional choices is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure the health of your child. Here are tips to help foster healthy habits:
Each child and family is different, but following these tips can help set up a lifestyle of healthy eating habits for your little one. Of the tips above, the most important one is setting a good example for your child. As a parent, you can’t force your kids to eat something, but you can lead by example and influence their decision. Children usually pay more attention to what you do than what you say.
Eat healthy snacks and meals with and around them to make eating healthy seem natural and less like a chore.
The best formula to fuel your child’s growth and development should include protein, vegetables, fruit, grains and dairy. These nutrient-dense foods will provide your children with a well-balanced diet. You should also aim to limit your child’s added sugar intake, as well as saturated and trans fats.
Greenville Pediatrics Services is here to provide nutritional advice. So, please feel comfortable bringing up the subject at your child’s next wellness visit. If you have serious concerns about your child’s eating habits, make an appointment with your pediatrician today.
