I am a firm believer in setting good examples for our children, especially when it comes to food. But my calling to healthier food choices and habits did not come without some major influences. My daughter Kirsten (now seven) has Prader-Willi Syndrome. Change in food choices and eating habits was a necessity!
In my world, measuring food quantities with great accuracy is important, but how many of us are using "best judgement" when it comes to portion sizes? Check out the studies conducted by Dr. Brian Wansink, author of the book "Mindless Eating". Some of his insightful experiments remind me of the old "Candid Camera" show.
There is no escaping it. Food is everywhere! It's in our kitchens, in our favorite TV programs, in everything we read... It's in our thoughts and at almost every event we attend, including church (how I miss sticking around for pot luck dinners).
For the benefit of our children, we must set a good example. They are watching everything we do, and our bad habits will be their bad habits to build upon. If we are cheating with a hidden stash of chocolates, you can bet they have noticed us reaching for them, chewing on them or they can smell them on our breath. If we are stopping for our favorite flavored coffee drink every day, they are probably on to us and craving a chocolate shake. If we are going heavy on the burgers and fries, while cutting back on vegetables, you can bet they are upset at the healthy amount of broccoli on their plate.
My daughter Kirsten (7 years old) is not allowed to have many
sweets or unhealthy snacks because she has Prader-Willi Syndrome
and weight control is, and will always be, a major struggle. Yet she
sees everyone else indulging. How do you explain that to a seven year
old who looks forward to church, just so she can take part in communion.
Every potential morsel of food... A distracting focus.
Be sure to check out the video above and you can find more of Dr. Wansink's videos on YouTube at the "MindlessEating" channel. These videos are not only entertaining, but a good source of inspiration as well.
If you are looking to make a change in you're eating habits and/or are concerned about your families nutrition, please visit my website listed below.
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Terry Guinn, A Healthier You Too |
Treat your family to the quality products they deserve. Shaklee products are always safe, always work, and are always green. If you would like more information about Shaklee products, please contact me, Terry Guinn, Shaklee Independent Distributor, through my website at www.ahealthieryoutoo.com or if you would like to checkout the products for yourself, go to my Shaklee page at www.ahealthieryoutoo.myshaklee.com
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Shakleebaby & Shakleekids |
Hi Terry,
ReplyDeleteSo true about mindless eating. I would not have been aware of it if like you I had not had a child diagnosed with PWS. Great post, BTW love your blog too.