The thing about these foods that scares me the most is that KIDS tend to eat them the most. As children are growing they need the best of everything to develop properly, maintain healthy weight, and (believe it or not) prevent adulthood obesity.
Here they are coupled with a few suggestions to help curb the negative effects of these foods.
- Chicken Nuggets
- Full of MSG, oils, Trans Fats
- Make homemade grilled chicken strips
- Soda Pop
- There may not be a substitute but it is time to DITCH the soda.
- Water with a lemon wedge
- Avoid "flavored water" drinks if possible.
- DO NOT TURN TO DIET SODAS.
- Hot Dogs and other Processed Meats
- look for nitrate free organic hot dogs with no preservations, artificial flavors, or meat byproducts.
- Store bought Cookies, Cakes, Muffins, and Crackers
- Make your OWN!
- Be aware of the Trans Fats(look at the back of the box).
- Get creative for deserts (sweet fruits, whipped frozen bananas)
- Some Popular Breakfast Cereals
- Sugar, Sugar, Sugar
- Stick to oats, grits, cream of wheat
- Even better-make some eggs or have some fresh Yogurt.
- Granola Bars
- Just eat plain Granola
- Better off with a bag of apple slices for your kids
- Pre-Made Condiments and Salad Dressings
- Make your own
- Dip your FORK into your dressing
- Add salt and pepper before condiments
There are some situations where these items feel unavoidable (I have had all of these at some point or another). The key is to limit them to certain activities. Maybe you just need a Hot Dog at the baseball diamond, or a drive through is the only option so you order a Coke and some Chicken Nuggets.
It isn't easy to eat healthy, if it was, everyone would do it. The BIGGEST KEY is to eat healthy in your home. Make the smart decisions at the grocery store and you won't have the temptation in your home. Leave the temptations to the restaurants and sporting events and that will give your body the chance to be healthy.
Eat well this Holiday Season!
Aubri
