The Glycemic Index Diet for Dummies (114 page)
Improved problem-solving abilities in school
Enhanced endurance and energy for activities and sports
Lifelong healthy habits
Although having an open conversation with your spouse about the food changes you're making is great, don't overdo the low-glycemic diet talk with your kids. You can certainly educate them on healthy food choices, but the more you focus on diet lingo, the more resistance you're bound to encounter as your kids start to feel like they're following a special diet.
A great strategy for getting your kids to embrace a low-glycemic diet is to ask them what kinds of fruits and vegetables they like. Doing so helps them feel like they're part of the meal-planning process (or at least the grocery-shopping process). Also, almost all fruits and vegetables are low-glycemic, so you're giving your kids the freedom to choose their favorites while making sure everyone's sticking to the new low-glycemic lifestyle.
Avoid eliminating foods your kids are used to — unless of course you're willing to deal with potential temper tantrums (even all the way up to high-school age). A better approach with kids of any age is to come up with some healthier, low-glycemic options they may enjoy so you can make a child-approved swap.
Don't forget moderation when it comes to the higher-glycemic foods and treats your children enjoy. Finding that perfect balance will make your new lifestyle changes go over smoothly
and
help your kids develop healthy habits for a lifetime.
Tips for getting your kids to eat healthier foods
Parents really can help their kids eat better — whether they're following a low-glycemic diet or not — and the process doesn't have to be unpleasant. In fact, it can actually be a blast for you and your kids. Following are some tips for increasing your children's interest in healthy foods in a fun way:
I know this idea may sound like a nightmare, but it can be beneficial at times. While you're in the produce section, let your kids pick out a new fruit or vegetable to try. Kids are more interested in trying new foods when they get to pick them out.
Let your children be a part of the meal-preparation process. Whether they mix something in a bowl or pour a sauce, they'll be happier to eat and more willing to try a meal when they played a part in making it.
Kids are drawn to foods that have different shapes and bright colors. Many fruits, including kiwi and star fruit, fall into this category. If you have a creative side, let it loose! Instead of handing your child a whole orange, break it up into pieces and make a smiley face on the plate. You'll be amazed what some simple creativity can do.
Believe it or not, you can have dessert and make it healthy too. Instead of depending on store-bought cookies and candy (which provide minimal nutrients), try serving fresh strawberries dipped in chocolate sauce, a fruit smoothie, or a berry cobbler. These lower-glycemic choices may have some sugar, but they also contain nutrients. Everything is healthy in moderation.
Candy should be a once-in-a-while treat, not a go-to snack. When your child really wants candy, forgo giving her a whole candy bar and try sprinkling a few M&M's in 1 ounce of trail mix instead. Also, avoid using candy and other sweets as rewards for good behavior; playtime in the park and fun family outings are better, more active reward alternatives.Remember:
Be a role model for your children. If you eat healthy and engage in physical activity you enjoy, your children will likely do the same. Encouraging physical activity and healthy food choices during childhood helps build these habits for a lifetime.