New Year's Resolution Check In - Healthy Eating

 www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

More often than not, one of the most common New Year's Resolutions is to get in shape / eat healthy. Not only is this good for your overall health, but eating certain foods are also beneficial for your teeth. Getting into a healthy eating habit is something you and your entire family can do to kick start the year.

As you move forward with your commitment to your family's healthy eating habits, we wanted to share some tips for success - inspired by Mommy blogger, Charity, of Foodlets:

1. Everyone (over the age of 2) Eats the Same Meal - Add a few different options to the meal and make note of each person's favorite ingredients so there's always something for everyone.
2. Add Spinach to Everything - Charity states the reason her kids eat it is because she tells them its going to be included in the meal rather than sneaking it in. Look for different ways to incorporate the good stuff into those tiny bodies. And as an added bonus, since spinach is rich in zinc and iron it makes for healthy and strong teeth.
3. Make it Fun - Make mealtimes enjoyable, offer pretty plates and bowls, special spoons, or tableware with your child's favorite characters. Try a game, make your children the critics. Have them try a small bite and let them vote thumbs up, middle, or down. If there's a thumbs down verdict just assure them it's ok and perhaps another time they can try it and see if they change their minds; planting the seed.  The more enjoyable meal time is, the better your kids will associate eating real food with pleasure.
4. Homemade is Better Than Processed - Especially when it comes to snack foods! Offer healthier options, sliced cucumbers, hummus and veggies, cheese slices. Check out our Pinterest board for some healthy snack ideas. Making something homemade is fresher, purer, and almost always healthier - and better for the teeth.
5. Offer Milk or Water With the Meal - Soda and juices are acidic and full of sugar which aids in tooth decay. Offering these two options for the whole family will make it easier for the kids once they see you drinking the same.

Encouraging healthy eating habits now can go a long way, not only for you but for your children as well. Has this been one of your resolution's for the New Year? Share your tips with us on our Facebook page!