Millions of children are considered fat in the United States. And these children are at greater risk of bone and joint(关节) problems, and poor self-confidence. While the government is working on programs to stop this trend, experts stress that prevention should start at home.
The first step to a healthy home is to simplify your shopping list, Mary Jones Verbovski, a pediatric dietitian(儿科营养学家)at Seattle Children’s Hospital, recommends fresh milk products, meats and vegetables——the brighter, the better. “Look for naturally colorful foods,” she said. “More nutrients, vitamins and minerals are naturally present there.”
Parents can become role models for their children by enjoying the process of cooking for the family. “When children grow up in a positive, loving environment where they cook and eat meals together, they’re more likely to absorb that into their own lives and families as they grow,” Verbovski said. “Inviting kids to join in the kitchen activities also helps the parents,” notes Verbovski. “If your child helps with cooking and food preparation, you get an understanding of what they like and what they may be willing to try,” she said.
It’s important to pass on nutritional facts to your children in a way that they’ll remember them. Nancy Walsh, who volunteers with the Junior League program, says keeping kids involved form start to finish helps them to learn nutritional and exercise tips and they’ll remember what they have learned through play and carry it with them as they grow up. The key is making it fun, while encouraging good discipline(纪律) and limits. “Find a way to make exercise and fitness fun and playful, not work or a chore,” Verbovski said.
