Father’s Day is almost here! I’ve got an awesome gift for you to celebrate the day, but first some words of wisdom from one parent to another.
As dads and moms, we have such a powerful influence over our kids when it comes to eating. What we eat, when we eat, where we eat, and how we eat will make a lasting impression on our kids whether we realize it or not. They’re watching, and what they observe us doing will become their normal.
If we want our daughters and sons to grow up to be healthy eaters, we need to lead by example. It’s our responsibility to purchase healthy food, cook healthy food, and serve healthy food. Most importantly, we need to be good role models and demonstrate healthy habits to our kids. It’s never too late to get started with this.
Optimal health is a gift that keeps on giving. Not only do we feel well when we make good food choices, we can take pride as we watch our kids (and grandkids) follow our lead and grow to be healthy and strong.
Here are three basic healthy eating habits that all families should practice every day:
- Limit added sugars in your diet. Sugar-sweetened beverages are the largest source of added sugars for most of us. Cut back on (preferably cut out) soda, sports drinks, energy drinks, fruit drinks, sweetened teas, and sugary coffee drinks. Drink plain water instead.
- Eat mostly home-cooked meals. Get your kids involved in cooking and planning meals. You will develop good eating habits together and the quality time with the family will be an added bonus.
- Eat more vegetables and fruits. Add them to dishes your family already loves and use them as healthier sides, snacks, and desserts. If you choose canned, watch for added sodium and sugars.
Now for that homemade beef jerky recipe. For a Father’s Day gift that comes from your heart and something he won’t expect, go the DIY route. Beef jerky is high in protein and low in fat making it a healthy on-the-go snack. Since it’s very low in sugar it won’t raise insulin levels – a hormone that signals the body to store fat – making it an ideal snack for anyone trying to lose weight.
Most store-bought brands contain ingredients such as nitrates making them high in sodium. This home-made recipe is much healthier. It makes the perfect gift for Father’s Day for your dad or yourself.
Lorraine Matthews-Antosiewicz, MS, RD
PS…
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, granddads, stepdads, dog dads, uncles, brothers, and other men in our lives who love and support us. Thank you!
