First of all you as parent need to know what actually is healthy food? When you read this question don't think of it as hours of research and complication. The main thing you need to worry about is a little more effort in your preparation of cooking the food itself.
Too much of anything is bad for you and to little of nothing is really bad for you. The key that you're looking for is balance. Hence, a balanced diet.
Lets look at things that shouldn't be in your trolley next time you pop out on your weekly shopping routine. Think of these as red foods.
- Ready meals (microwave meals).
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Boxed and packaged foods.
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Fizzy drinks.
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Crisps and sweets.
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Cakes.
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White bread.
Now lets look at foods, which will provide you with a good source of RDA (recommended daily amounts) of protein, carbohydrates, essential fats, vitamins and minerals. Think of these as blue foods.
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Fresh meat including: chicken, beef, pork, lamb and fish.
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Pasta.
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Whole grain bread.
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Cereals.
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Fruit and vegetables.
Now all you have to do is cook it. This is the best part because you can learn new recipes and experiment with different ideas. Your children will come accustomed to eating healthy fine food and when they do eat junk food I guarantee they wont like it.
Another good way to get your children to eat healthy is to explain WHY it's good for them. Next time your sitting round the dinner table and one of the children turn their nose up at the food. Explain what is they are missing out on.
Example:
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Protein (found in meat) is needed to grow muscles. Makes them big and strong.
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Carbohydrates (found in pasta and potatoes) gives them energy. to play with their friends outside.
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Fat (found in meat and nuts) helps keep the body worm in the winter.
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Vitamins and minerals (found in milk, fruit and vegetables) will make them see in the dark and help fight against germs.
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Educate your children into understanding why it is important.
- Give it a couple of months and they will be telling you what's healthy and what not.
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Junk food is ok now and again but remember too much of anything is bad for you.
