Life is crazy and hectic and full of MUST DO’S, right this minute, the world will stop if I don’t get this done type of attitude. It easy to forget why we HAVE to do most of the things we do. For some of us it’s our job. It defines us, it’s the reason we get out of bed, and it is our pride and self worth meter all rapped into one. For others, it’s our families and their needs. Life revolves around school, sports, meals, and homework. And then there are those who do it all. They work full time and raise a family. Those people are lucky if they can remember their names at the end of the day, because they have been go-go-going from sun up until sun down.
My reasons are numbered Thing One, Thing Two, and Thing Three (after their favorite author Dr. Seuss), and at this moment they are singing “The Lion King” and dancing around the living room. Even if you don’t have kids- when was the last time you sat back and honestly said to your self “It doesn’t get much better than this.”
You may be asking “why are you talking about moments and kids during a fitness blog?” It’s simple: my moment, which caused me to sit down and write during naptime, was at lunch today. After a rush to summer camp, then the store, then to work out, followed by a morning nap (sadly not for me), and back to summer camp for pick up: it was time for lunch. I did my version of throwing together and ended up serving a Trader Joe’s organic cheese pizza, frozen green beans (still frozen), and fresh apples and strawberries. As the older ones took turns making both me, and the baby laugh, they also raced to see who could finish their green beans the fastest, my moment happened…
My family loves fresh foods- healthy foods. I don’t have to force them and I don’t have to hide them under cheese sauce. I can see that my kids are learning about proper nutrition because it is something they live. Now I know there are probably a few people thinking “my kids won’t eat tofu or fish.”
My question to you is:
Have you tried?
If you start kids young, even at first solid food phase, you will be surprised at what they like. Things like tofu, avocado, and fish become a normal household food option. Combine the healthy vs. garbage foods with your own positive example of eating well and you have kids who eat what they like- and what’s good for them! Then there is no need to “hide” food.
Now, I’m not saying my family eats and likes everything out there, they don’t, but I try never to precursor new foods with “I don’t think you will like this.” or ugly looks on my face. I try never to say I don’t like something because young children want to be like their parents. I try to take an example from my own mother who HATES peas and spinach, but ya know what? They were my favorite growing up because she not only offered them to me frequently, but she also make it fun (anyone remember Popeye?) We are their world and we shape how willing they are to embrace new experiences. New foods are an experience.
So my reason in all of this is TRY IT. Just like Sam I Am from Dr. Seuss’ “Green Eggs and Ham”: “Try it, try it and you will see…” Start small, make it a family adventure, and enjoy the moment.
Here are some healthy foods I have found that are easy to introduce.
Quinoa- it is technically from green leafy plants in the chard family, but it has the look, feel, taste, and texture of a grain. The best part is, that unlike white rice, which is primarily just a filler, quinoa is loaded with protein and other nutrients. You cook it just like rice in 2 parts liquid- 1 part quinoa.
Hummus- is a traditional Mediterranean side that is loaded with protein. You can find all different types made from chickpeas (normal) to eggplant and roasted red pepper. Personally I like the eggplant variety because it is low in sodium and I won’t normally eat eggplant. Kids love it because they can dip pita bread, veggies, or pretty much anything they want into it. The texture is smooth and the taste is slightly salty.
Whole Wheat Pasta- it cooks the same and tastes the same. The kids will never know the difference.
Veggie Tray with Dip- is not just for parties anymore. Red bell peppers are sweet and crunchy- two things kids love. Sugar snap peas met the criteria too. Add in carrots and celery with a low fat dip (we personally like onion dip make with organic low fat sour cream and only half of the mix packet) and you have a fun snack options. Don’t be surprised when you leave it out that is gone in a few hours. This is one option that you want to get the kids involved it. Take them to the store and let them choose some of the veggies. Explain how they taste and why they are good for you. When you share your knowledge along with the foods you are teaching WHY it is important to eat well. EX: “ carrots are good for your eyes. They will help you see better when you have to catch the ball.”
I personally like to tell my girls that fresh fruits and veggies will help them grow big and strong. I also tell them that when they eat healthy foods they will have the energy to run fast and jump high. Who hasn’t met a kid who didn’t want to be the best especially if they have siblings?
Veggie/ Fruit Juice- there is several brands out there that are made from both fruits and vegetables. Personally I like LAKEWOOD Organic Fruit Garden. They have three different varieties that are loaded with around 17 different fruits and veggies. The best part is that unlike other more well know brands, LakeWood has no added sugars of any kind and only has 9g of sugar per serving. Traditional apple juice has up to 34g per serving!!!
Food is fun. It is something that we build memories around and with a little thought, an open mind, and an eye for label: you can make it healthy too.
www.lefitnesslv.com