Family Nutrition and Leading By Example

Our children are in trouble because we have outsourced the job of feeding them. The average American diet consists of 70% processed food. That is food that is produced by companies who prioritize short-term profits over the long-term health of our children As the processed food industry expands, we are seeing many other parts of the world beginning to follow. Large amount of salt, sugar and fats are hidden in these foods in order for longer extended shelf life and enhanced flavor for selling. The majority of the salt, sugar and fats children are eating come from processed foods. Almost everything comes in a can, bottle or package which is processed food. Even some brands that are considered to be health are heavily processed like, yogurt, cheese, pasta sauce, etc... Manufacturers add things to enhance the flavor of the food to make it last longer like corn syrup, salt, flavoring, stabilizers and preservatives, then the synthetic nutrients are added back so the manufacturer can claim the food is healthy. It is important we choose foods that are less processed. The best option is food we prepare at home as we know exactly what is going into the meals. A diet of mostly cooked foods prepared by someone who cares what goes into the body is always healthier. As parents we need set an example. When our children see us eating fruits and vegetables we are advertising to them that eating healthy is the way to go. What we buy and eat has an affect on our children and creates a culture. Take your children to the local farmer's market or grow your own food. Children are more likely to eat what they grow and keep them exposed to real food as much as possible. It is important to let your children know that they have a choice and making these choices can keep them healthy, happy and prevent health issues later in life.