Now that school is back in session, are you looking for ways to make your family’s diet a little healthier? It may seem difficult to do, especially if you’re running here and there trying to keep up with everyone’s schedules.
Instead of making big changes, start with a few smaller changes instead. They’re easier to make, and they’re easier to keep in place.
Start By Slowing Down
If you’re always eating in the car on your way to the next activity or meeting, it’s time to stop and put a little more time into your days. Studies show there is a direct link to how quickly you eat and the rise in obesity. When your stomach tells you it’s hungry, you take in food. How full you feel depends on hormones that travel between your stomach and your brain, telling you how hungry or full you are. This process can take up to 20 minutes. The quicker you put food in, the more calories you take in before your brain signals your body it’s time to stop.
Try to plan family dinners as often as you can. This gives you a chance to connect with each family member as well as share news from your day. It also gives you time to thoroughly chew your food, and only take in as much as your body truly needs.
Shop With A List
Have you ever gone to the grocery store hungry? That’s when impulse buying is at its worst. Everything looks good, so you load up on the sugary snacks that your body doesn't’ need.
It works the same when you shop without a list. You might stop for just an item or two, but your cart quickly has a whole lot more.
A list stops you from impulse buying. It also keeps you on track for what you want to buy. It gets you in and out quickly because you know exactly where to go. It also helps you stick to a budget; no more extra items you really don’t need.
Look For New Restaurants
Just because you eat out doesn’t mean you have to go through the drive-thru. Consider upgrading your fast food restaurants with healthier alternatives.
It can also be an eye-opener as to how much fast food actually costs. There are many healthy quick casual restaurants that can get you in and out in the same amount of time. You’ll often find new fusion kitchens do an excellent job of giving you higher quality food at a reasonable cost.
And while you still may like your favorite burger or pizza once in a while, you’ll love experiencing new tastes your family will love. You’ll make your kids better eaters in the process too.
What have you done this year to make your family better eaters?