Hassle Free Dinners for Healthier Feet
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March is National Nutrition Month and here at Texas Foot Specialists, we know that helping children make healthy food choices now is building a habit that will follow them into adulthood and lead to healthier feet and bodies throughout their lives. But how do you handle the wrinkled nose and pushed away plate accompanied by the whining, “I don’t like that”?
Reframe the Question
Instead of asking, “Why don’t you like it?” the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics suggests a different approach: “How can I make that better for you?” You may be surprised by the answers you get. It may be something as simple as the food being too hot or too cold which can quickly be remedied. It might be specks of green parsley that are keeping your child from the whole grain rice or some yellow pepper mixed in the salad. Let your child put the offending item to the side of their plate. If they eat the rest of your healthy meal they’ll still come out ahead nutritionally speaking.
Add Some Fun
Put out some healthy shakers on the table with “sprinkles” that children can add to their food. Shredded cheese, sesame or flax seeds, coconut shreds, or fresh mint may spice up a dish and give your child a sense of control over what they’re eating. Note: seeds and nuts can be choking hazards for little ones under age 4.
Make Mealtime Enjoyable
Studies show that there are multiple mental health and other benefits for families who eat dinner together regularly. Resist pressuring, threatening, or nagging your child. It rarely works anyway! Turn off the TV and make it a rule that there be no electronics at the table.
Involve Your Child in Meal Prep
Shop together for a rainbow of different produce. Challenge them to find something red, green, or orange to add to dinner. Give them some choices in what you’ll serve and let them help make a meal they’ll be happy to serve and eat.
Good nutrition has several benefits for your family’s feet, including maintaining a healthy weight, getting antioxidants and ingredients that can help fight inflammation, and building strong bones and muscles. If you have questions about your child’s podiatric health, contact our Sugar Land 281-242-4448, Pasadena 281-991-0600, or Houston 713-664-6677 offices and ask our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum.