Fun Information for Healthy Families

WHAT IS FAMILY NUTRITION?

So, what is the definition of family nutrition? Basically, to practice good nutrition for your family means providing everyone with enough food to meet their nutritional needs and establish healthy eating habits for the long-term. The overall nutritional needs for most people are largely the same, regardless of gender or age group. This means that eating well is not only essential for children who are still developing, but for the adults in the family as well. The importance of family nutrition hinges on the fact that food is our body’s number one source of energy. In fact, healthier food not only increases energy levels, but it also helps the body build up strength to fight off future or existing health conditions like diabetes and heart disease.

TOP 5 NUTRITION FACTS

1. Added sugar is a disaster. In order to improve the taste of processed foods, manufacturers often add sugar (such as table sugar or sucrose and syrups or high-fructose corn syrup) to them. This is listed on the Nutrition Label under "Added Sugars". Everyone knows that too much added sugar is unhealthy and has no nutrients at all and is just empty calories, resulting in loss of nutrients needed for your body to function. Not only will you lose necessary vitamins and nutrients, but you are placing your family and yourself at a higher than normal mortality rate. Added sugars are connected to a higher rate of obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. Don't take the risk of future problems.
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids are crucial. Most people do not get enough fatty acids in their diets. Lacking enough Omega-3 can contribute to a number of diseases including low IQ, depression, and heart disease. Make sure you get your Omega-3 by eating more fish high in fat (salmon, mackeral), seeds such as Chia or Flaxseed, walnuts, and yummy veggies like spinach and brussel sprouts.
3. No diet is perfect for everyone. Due to everyone being different, you may have to do a little experimentation with the foods you eat to keep you healthy. What is good for one person is not necessarily good for the next. For instance, people with allergies need to get their nutrients from other sources because they cannot eat certain foods. Try different things and keep an open mind. You never know you may stumble onto something delicious and highly nutritious. Remember a nutritionally, healthy diet is 
4. Eating vegetables will improve your health and nutrition. Even though we never want to admit that our parents are right, they are about this fact: Vegetables Are Good For You. All vegetables are rich in vitamins and nutrients, any way you slice them. They are a contributing factor to improved health and a lower risk of disease. Encourage your family and friends to eat a variety of vegetables every day. They are delicious and filling without the added calories of other foods. Try to eat a rainbow of vegetables and do not be afraid to try new ones.
5. Supplements are good to take, but do not come close to replacing a nutritionally healthy diet. Who wants to take pills when a variety of foods have so much to offer? You can get all the vitamins and nutrients to have a healthy body and life from a variety of different foods. Always remember to try new foods. You may be surprised that your favorite foods tomorrow are the ones you did not like yesterday.

CHECK OUT THESE ARTICLES FOR MORE FAMILY NUTRITION STRATEGIES AND INFORMATION.

Importance of Reducing Sugar

Water: It's a Great Choice

Healthy Meals with MyPlate

Vary Your Protein Foods

Whole Grains Make a Difference

Tips for a "Choosy" Eater

Healthy Celebrations, Lasting Memories

Healthier Middle Schools - Every Parent Can Help

Encouraging Vegetables

MyPlate Guide to School Breakfast

MyPlate Guide to School Lunch

Reducing the Risk of Choking in Young Children at Mealtimes

Developing Healthy Habits with Less Sugar

Developing a Taste for Less Sodium

Serving Meals "Family Style"