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Last Updated: Jul 2nd, 2008 - 21:15:22 |
(NC)-Helping kids develop good eating habits starts at home. Research shows that children who see parents and family members who are active and eat a healthy diet will be more likely to adopt the same habits.
In a study published in the Journal of The American Dietetic Association, mothers who ate more fruits and vegetables had daughters who in turn ate more fruits and vegetables. Families can maintain and improve their healthy eating habits with these practical tips:
Breakfast - Studies show eating breakfast improves concentration, builds energy and reduces hunger throughout the day. For a healthy start to the day, choose whole-grain breads, cereals and low-fat muffins, fruit and yogurt.
Add Iron - Iron is important for both adults and children to feel energized. Sprinkling currants, raisins, almonds and other dried fruits on cereal, for example, or adding peas, lentils and beans to soups and casseroles is an easy way to add energy-boosting iron to your diet.
Boost Fibre - Fibre can reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, and help curb hunger between meals. Healthy snacks such as raw vegetables, fruit, nuts and seeds require little effort to prepare, are easy to transport and will help keep you satisfied until the next meal.
Healthy Snacks - Opt for healthy snacks between meals such as dried fruit, yogurt or applesauce for yourself and your kids. Keeping these snacks handy after school or in the car lowers the temptation for something fast and less nutritious.
"Adding fruits and vegetables wherever possible to cereals, soups or salads, ensures families get more out of their regular meals," says Calgary-based registered dietitian Samara Felesky-Hunt. "When kids watch or help a parent prepare a meal that represents the five food groups, they learn about and enjoy nutritious food at an early age, and establish habits that can last a lifetime."
It can be difficult to keep track of your family's nutrient intakes and understand where the shortfalls may be on any given day.
A multivitamin, such as Centrum, is formulated to top up a diet that may not meet all of your daily nutritional needs. Taking one every morning with your family at breakfast ensures that you and your loved ones are getting the essential nutrients the body needs in order to live a healthy life.
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