I feel so strange writing a post like this because this is usually something that I read from others. But I thought I would share what I have been doing the past few weeks with my kids directing them towards eating a more whole foods diet and cutting down on sugar.
This past Saturday when I went to the grocery store, I made sure to really stay away from processed foods and get lots of fruits and veggies. I got strawberries, grapes, apples, bananas and carrots, and celery. As soon as I got home I washed and peeled the carrots and celery, cut them up and put them into small snack bags. I also did the same with the grapes and put them in snack bags. I then put them into the bottom drawers in the fridge. I told the kids that if they wanted a snack they knew where they could go and everything was already prepared for them. It has worked like a charm!! Now, Jack isn't doing the best with the veggies, but he is super picky and I know he will grow out of it. But Sadie, she is putting away so many fruits and veggies. I am so proud of her!!
I have also given them cheese and peanut butter and whole grain saltines. They are loving it.
I have also made a new snack that they love. I know that I need to get away from it because it isn't whole foods but we are working our way to that direction. I took two graham crackers and put sugar free cool whip between them and then froze them. When the kids want a special treat, I will give them half of one. They LOVE it. They think its an ice cream sandwich ;)
I have also found this website with a lot of links to snacks that she makes, I am hoping to make some next week. I love the idea of making my own crackers and graham crackers. She makes it look so easy. I will get back to you on that one. :)
I also have a bin full of snacks, some granola bars that are low sugar, raisins, all natural snack crackers. So, when I tell the kids that they can have a snack, they go to the snack bucket or get something out of the bottom of the fridge. It has made it easier than me having to think of something for them to have for a snack. I like not thinking...it makes it nice for momma. :)
I also found Greek Yogurt pops. The kids love them! So that is a treat for them.
Also for breakfast, I have cut out all cereals as they are high sugar and they don't fill them up. So, we have done smoothies, eggs, pancakes, waffles, french toast. I usually just try to make sure they have some sort of protien for breakfast.
We also only drink water or milk in our house. That is how it always has been in our house so my kids know no different. But that also limits their sugar.
So that is all that I have done so far and my kids haven't had an problems at all. I know that I have lots more that I want to change, but it's baby steps at a time.
I would love to hear if you all have any ideas that you do in your home that you can pass along to me.
I would love to be able to use your wisdom to help my family eat healthier!!! :)
