Nutrition Matters

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!