Trends

• The incidence of obesity in children and teens has tripled over the last 20 years. The U.S. Surgeon General points to unhealthy diets as a major factor in this trend. In these busy days, many families don't have the time to eat dinner together, but he American Dietetic Association points out that when kids do eat meals at home, they tend to have a higher quality diet, with more fruits and vegetables, and less fat and sugar. The ADA also states that the number of fast food meals eaten by kids has more than tripled in the last 30 years. When kids eat fast food meals, they take in high quantities of fat and sodium. Fast food meals also tend to have fewer vitamins and minerals than home-cooked meals.
  
  

Guidelines

• Many people are familiar with the Food Pyramid, which lists recommended amounts everyone should eat from each major food group. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also developed the Food Pyramid for Kids. Recognizing that kids have different nutrition needs than adults, this pyramid recommends 6 oz. of grains, 2-1/2 cups of vegetables, and 1-1/2 cups of fruit every day. The kids' pyramid also sets a daily goal of 2 to 3 cups of dairy (milk, cheese or yogurt) and 5 oz. of protein (meat, nuts or beans) per day. To learn more about the Food Pyramid for Kids, see the Resources section.
  
  

Healthy Choices

• The Surgeon General recommends eating meals together, as a family, as often as possible. Parents can also help by keeping supplies of low fat milk, fresh fruit and vegetables available for kids. Save soft drinks and sweets for special occasions, not everyday treats. Before buying any food for your home, be sure to read the labels. Some packaged foods may seem healthy but contain surprisingly large amounts of sugar, fats or or salt.
  
  

Teaching

• Kids will be more likely to eat healthy if they feel they're a part of the decision-making process, says KidsHealth, a website that offers parenting advice (Find a link in Resources). Teach kids which foods are healthy--and why. Show kids the food pyramid and explain why certain foods are considered better choices. Let them help to plan meals and make grocery lists. If you and your kids disagree about a certain food, take the time to discuss it. You can even let them have a little junk food, as long as they make healthy choices for meals and most snacks.
  
  

Role Modeling

• Even if you love snack foods yourself, you need to be a role model for your kids. The Surgeon General suggests taking the lead by eating healthy and getting plenty of exercise. Concentrate on healthy food choices for yourself, including dropping your favorite snacks for more fruits and vegetables. Plan family activities that help everyone get some exercise. Remember, if your child sees you making an effort, he or she is more likely to follow suit and start good eating and exercise habits that can last a lifetime.