Getting Kids to Eat Healthy Without a Fight

Although I am not a parent myself, I wonder how I will get my future kids to eat healthy without a fight. Our Wellness VP, Ben Slaugh, who does a great job of eating healthy and exercising himself, admits his continual struggle with getting his kids to eat healthy.

A recent study showed that both parents and vegetable companies may be trying too hard to "sell" healthy foods to kids.

It turns out young kids believe foods can serve only one purpose. They can either be healthy or they can taste good. In their minds, they can't be both.

What does your child think of your marketing strategies?

• Parent: Broccoli is delicious!
• Child: Why don't you eat it then? 
• Parent: Carrots will make you grow big and strong.
• Child: Carrots must not taste very good then.
• Parent: No dessert until you finish your green beans. 
• Child: Even though I filled up on the spaghetti you gave me, if I muscle through, I get sugar!

 

3 Easy Steps to Facilitate Healthy Eating in Kids:

1- Buy healthy foods. 

2- Put them in front of your kids.

3- Don't say a word.

It is up to you to provide the healthy choices, lead by example, and let them take care of the rest.

http://www.ksl.com/index.php?sid=30269678&nid=1009&title=best-way-to-make-kids-eat-healthy-is-to-say-nothing-study-finds&s_cid=queue-4