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Part 2 of Getting Your Kids to Eat Healthy

Did you know that seven out of ten boys and nine out of ten girls don’t get enough calcium in their diets? It’s not always easy to make certain your children are getting a balanced diet. Terri Verason, MS, RD, Director of Nutrition Education at the Dairy Council of Arizona says, “Make sure you are eating nutrient rich foods, including three servings of low fat or fat free milk, cheese or yogurt each day. It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3…”

1. Start your day with fat free yogurt as part of a healthy breakfast; why not try a peach-raspberry parfait?  There are so many delicious fruits in season that it’s easy to find one that goes great as a breakfast treat mixed with low-fat yogurt or as part of a smoothie. Make sure you check out Arizona’s farmer’s markets when looking for your fresh fruits and vegetables.
2. Have a glass of ice cold milk with lunch and don’t rule chocolate milk out. It’s nutritious and kids love the taste!
3. Enjoy a cheese stick as an afternoon pick-me-up.

In addition to making certain your children (and the rest of your family) eat healthy meals, it’s also important that you share with your children the importance of daily activity. Whether your family takes a walk around the neighborhood after dinner, a quick bike ride before work or school or plays in organized sports, they will follow your example; if you’re active, chances are they will be as well. As a way to find out your family’s general health and fitness levels, you can check out tools offered by the National Dairy Council.

Before you and your family jump into any fitness routine, you may want to check with your healthcare professional. As a fun way to add bursts of exercise into your day, why not set up a “Family Challenge” and while you’re watching television together take the time during commercials to see who can do the most jumping jacks or push-ups or sit ups? It’s a fun way to work healthy habits into part of your family routine and on those Arizona days when it may be too hot to head outside for exercise you can still work fitness into your family time.

Remember, it’s as easy as 1, 2,3 to fit dairy (and exercise) into your daily routine and meal plans!