She and I were really hitting it off until she asked me what I do for a living.
When I responded “I am a dietitian,” her face dropped.
Many RDs are working moms trying to juggle all of life’s demands just like anyone else.
Who has time for that?
Life is much easier when you’re not cooking separate things for each person.
Everything goes on the table, each person serves themselves.
Always something on the table a child can fill up on if they don’t like the main entree….
Sometimes I put together elaborate meals, but often it’s simple things.
Lunch is usually last night’s leftovers."
Time is one of the most important parts of meal prepping for every busy mom.
“My girls are 6 and 3 and tend to be very selective eaters.
However, this does not stop me from introducing new foods whenever possible,” she said.
The key for RDs is offering healthy foods and not being discouraged when the kids reject them initially.
DietitianChrista Bieglertold me, “I double-check we have a wide variety so even pickier eaters can still eat.
Even if it was their old standbys (apple wedges, carrot sticks, grapes, berries).”
If your kid likes bananas or apples, give them that at their meals.
Kid-friendly protein
Some kids reject high protein foods, opting for carbohydrates or fruits instead.
Mothers tend to worry about this because they believe protein is the most important nutrient for kids.
If they are able to tolerate it, it can be an easy source of these nutrients.
Diane Norwood ofThe Wandering RDtold me, “Only one of my three kids likes milk.
Research also suggests saturated fat is not bad either.
In the end, what throw in of milk a child drinks depends on their preferences and tolerance.
This allows them to learn to self-feed and explore new textures.
Dietitian Jessica Spiro told me that “much to the surprise of many, no food is off limits.
That means we don’t make a big deal about enjoying chocolate, fries, and pancakes on occasion.
Most RDs recommend following food principles or guidelines, rather than strict “rules.”
Life happens, sometimes all you could throw together for dinner is a quesadilla.
Also, it’s important to enjoy food.
Chocolate and pancakes taste great, so why deny a child of that pleasure?
It’s not about perfection
Dietitians are far from perfect.
Dietitian Jenna Braddock ofMake Healthy Easysaid, “I often have conversations with my boys about their favorite treats.
Cupcakes, cookies, and chocolate milk are regular conversation starters with them.
I like to always affirm that they are wonderful foods, and I especially love enjoying them together.
At the end of the day, food is meant to be enjoyed.
Cupcakes and cookies can fit into a healthy meal pattern from time to time.
Trying to meet a standard of perfection isn’t realistic for most adults, much less for children.
Although a few basic principles should be followed, there is no need to restrict a child’s diet.
She said, “We are trying to empower her with the ability to choose while still guiding her.
There is no exact science or formula and raising healthy eaters is not an overnight process.
