by Pennie Sempell
I know I associate Mom’s love with something delicious from the kitchen, maybe even a few helpings of something delicious. The association between love and food seems engrained in our closest relationships. It is our nature to want our children to “eat enough” so they will grow healthy and strong. But how much is “enough”? And when does it become “unhealthy”?
A century ago, food was not plentiful in most parts of the world, and the family feast was an occasional event. Today, big portions are commonplace. While this is a sign of a certain kind of abundance, it turns out not to be healthy in ways far more pervasive than previously understood.
In January 2011 the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the release of the 2011 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This document is the federal governments evidence-based nutritional guide to promote health, reduce the risk of chronic disease and reduce the prevalence of overweight and obesity.
“Helping Americans incorporate these guidelines into their everyday lives is important to
improving the overall health of the American people,” said HHS Secretary Sebelius. “The new Dietary Guidelines provide concrete action steps to help people live healthier, more physically active and longer lives.”
Here are some of the highlights of the Dietary Guidelines that you can begin to practice right now in your home:
* Enjoy your food, but eat less
* Avoid oversized portions
* Make half your plate fruits and vegetables
* Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk
* Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread, frozen meals, and choose the foods with lower numbers
* Drink water instead of sugary drinks
My family really took to chilled water that is “spiked” with a few slices of orange, lemon, cucumber, mint or cinnamon stick in the pitcher that you keep in the frig. This makes a refreshing, non-sugar drink, that the kids can grab quick after they return hot and exhausted from school or soccer practice, or during meal time.
Another helpful tip is the use of smaller plates, such as the 9” plate (which has become my standard plate to keep my caloric intake down, as well as my dress size).
Teaching these lessons by your practices at home can have a lasting impact on your child’s life.
The advice given in this article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. You should consult with your family doctor about your health choices.
Working with physicians and psychologists at a major medical center, former teacher and mediator, Pennie Sempell, JD, ACMT specializes in integrative healing arts and mind-body therapies. She has written, performed and produced award-winning programs for children with a focus on health literacy. www.HealthierHappierLife.com.
I know I associate Mom’s love with something delicious from the kitchen, maybe even a few helpings of something delicious. The association between love and food seems engrained in our closest relationships. It is our nature to want our children to “eat enough” so they will grow healthy and strong. But how much is “enough”? And when does it become “unhealthy”?
A century ago, food was not plentiful in most parts of the world, and the family feast was an occasional event. Today, big portions are commonplace. While this is a sign of a certain kind of abundance, it turns out not to be healthy in ways far more pervasive than previously understood.
In January 2011 the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the release of the 2011 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This document is the federal governments evidence-based nutritional guide to promote health, reduce the risk of chronic disease and reduce the prevalence of overweight and obesity.
“Helping Americans incorporate these guidelines into their everyday lives is important to
improving the overall health of the American people,” said HHS Secretary Sebelius. “The new Dietary Guidelines provide concrete action steps to help people live healthier, more physically active and longer lives.”
Here are some of the highlights of the Dietary Guidelines that you can begin to practice right now in your home:
* Enjoy your food, but eat less
* Avoid oversized portions
* Make half your plate fruits and vegetables
* Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk
* Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread, frozen meals, and choose the foods with lower numbers
* Drink water instead of sugary drinks
My family really took to chilled water that is “spiked” with a few slices of orange, lemon, cucumber, mint or cinnamon stick in the pitcher that you keep in the frig. This makes a refreshing, non-sugar drink, that the kids can grab quick after they return hot and exhausted from school or soccer practice, or during meal time.
Another helpful tip is the use of smaller plates, such as the 9” plate (which has become my standard plate to keep my caloric intake down, as well as my dress size).
Teaching these lessons by your practices at home can have a lasting impact on your child’s life.
The advice given in this article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. You should consult with your family doctor about your health choices.
Working with physicians and psychologists at a major medical center, former teacher and mediator, Pennie Sempell, JD, ACMT specializes in integrative healing arts and mind-body therapies. She has written, performed and produced award-winning programs for children with a focus on health literacy. www.HealthierHappierLife.com.
