Healthy eating can start at any age, but the younger we are when we start eating healthy, the more of a chance we can avoid illness later in life. If you have children, then you need to make sure they are eating foods that truly are healthy for them. Sometimes, though, you may not know what to provide to your kids. There is such conflicting information out there about what is truly healthy for kids and what is not. To help you get through the confusion, here are five healthy eating facts for kids.
1. Breakfast is a must. There have been numerous studies that have shown that when kids eat a healthy breakfast, they are able to concentrate better in school. In addition, they will have more energy throughout the day. It can be easy to skip breakfast when you are in a hurry, but if you want to make sure your kids are practicing healthy eating, you need to provide them with breakfast.
2. Another of the healthy eating facts for kids would be the importance of dairy. Your child’s bones are still developing. This means that calcium is a must. Dairy products are very high in calcium. All you need to do is look for low fat products like skim or 1% milk and low fat cheeses.
3. Kids are more likely to be willing to practice healthy eating if you allow them to be involved in cooking. When you are getting ready to prepare family dinner, be sure to allow your kids to help. Look for simple tasks that will not be dangerous for them, but will make them feel like they have an important responsibility.
4. Perhaps one of the most important healthy eating facts for kids would be how valuable fruits and vegetables are. Many times, kids will choose unhealthy junk food over fruits and vegetables, but kids need five servings of these healthy foods every day. Find ways to make sure they are getting them through fruit slices for snacks or low sugar fruit juices.
5. Family dinner makes a difference. When you all sit down for a meal, it is much easier to make sure your child is eating healthy. No matter how busy you are, try to have one family meal together each day.
As you can see, these five healthy eating facts for kids will make it much easier for you to get started making sure your own child is eating healthy for a better future.