September 28, 2018
Temperatures are still warm here in NC, but it feels like fall, with the return to weekday routines and a renewed focus on family meals and feeding kids healthfully. It’s no surprise then that September is Fruit & Veggies More Matter Month AND Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, two public health observances that seek to shed light on two very serious concerns: the lack of vegetables in the American (children’s) diet and the increasing number of children at an unhealthy weight. And if you’re like most clients I see, you may be asking how to get your kids to eat more veggies and fruit.
These statistics are woeful and alarming, people. Obesity at all ages is complex and caused by many factors (genetics, environment, excess calories, food choices, physical activity, metabolism, gut health and so many more). While the childhood obesity epidemic will not be solved by just getting kids to eat more fruits and vegetables, it’s a start.
Most importantly, DON’T GIVE UP. Believe me, I know it’s not always as easy as it sounds.
One of my children will happily try new foods and loves her leafy green veggies. My other child is more cautious and loves his fruit, especially berries. He finds vegetables incredibly bitter (super taster?), and it’s a constant struggle to get him to try new veggies. But, PERSISTENCE and HEALTHY ROLE MODELING are two critical keys to shaping young eaters. So, I’ll continue taking him to the farmers market, sitting down next to him at the table while I eat (and offer him) vegetables. And, of course, high-five him when he tries–and sometimes likes–a new veggie.
PLEASE SHARE: What are your favorite tips for introducing new fruits and vegetables? What are your favorite ways to make produce more fun?
This post first appeared on Kleiner Nutrition in September 2015.