Nutrition Matters
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A column by Raina Childers, MS, RD, LD Director of Nutritional Services at HealthPoint Plaza in Cape Girardeau |
Start the new year off right!
As another New Year rolls in, we can work together to promote a positive nutrition culture, especially for our future generations.
Here are some some great tips to try with your family and friends this year. Together we can make a difference!
• Strive to eat meals together.
• Show your child/grandchild how much you enjoy nutritious foods, fun and physical activity.
• Say “no” to super-sized portions when eating out.
• Avoid telling kids to “clean your plate.”
• Limit access to sweetened beverages at home. Promote water as the beverage of choice when thirsty.
• Plant a vegetable garden at home or school.
• For short errands, walk or bike with your child.
• Limit total “electronic time” (including video games, computer, TV, etc.) to a maximum of 2 hours daily.
• Devise a healthy snack list and post it on the refrigerator.
• Assign children a “kids rule” night where they are in charge of menu planning, cooking and clean-up.
• Make sure your kids starts every school day with a nutritious breakfast.
• Encourage kids to play outside whenever possible. Play with them when you can.
• Discuss food advertising with your child.
• Volunteer with your child at a local food bank or soup kitchen.
• Study a different culture (or even your own) and learn more about their lifestyles and eating habits.
• Enjoy eating a variety of foods. Celebrate the abundanc eof available food choices.
Happy New Year!
Read older Nutrition Matters columns with links below!
Power up Your Plate |