So how do we teach them to eat healthily? My teenager gets home from school and reaches straight for a bagel with melted mozzarella. He can make it himself so he feels in control and I understand he needs that but I’d be so much happier if he ate a vegetable with it. Then again the amount of sweets, crisps and fizzy drinks that are snuffled in as well, is eye watering.
Teenagers are facing an onslaught of unhealthy food choices from so many angles. Their peers, advertising, social media, supermarket layout, the quality of processed food and its tantalising packaging besides the fact that simple carbohydrates like bread, cakes, pasta and the obvious sugary stuff, release feel-good chemicals in their brain, making them go back for more and more. Just as their bodies are growing and developing in a way that will affect their future health, they are hampering it and causing potential problems in their bones, teeth, digestive system and mental health.
ok, that’s scary but we actually need a way to make this better while dealing with the most oppositional, uncooperative, ‘I know it all already’ people on the planet.
The Plan
Start slowly. Don’t try a dramatic change. Gradually remove the unhealthy snacks. They’ll still buy them with their friends but at least you’re not adding to the sugar intake. Slices of apple with peanut butter are a good alternative. Part of the problem is that carbs don’t fill you up for long, protein on the other hand does and gives the nutrients needed for a healthy growing body. So think protein.
Cook with them. Not all the time because that would drive you crazy but giving them the power to choose with guidance and the skills to actually make something tasty means they will try different ingredients and recipes they would turn their noses up at if they hadn’t made it themselves. It’s a life skill many adults are still struggling with and it absolutely affects their health and well-being.
Modeling. You’ve got to show them how to eat well or their lawyer like minds will take you down the first time you try and promote the benefits of carrots. So you get a double win if you’re not already eating your five a day.
Eat together. I know this is not possible all the time but sometimes is hugely beneficial. Studies show that it promotes healthy eating as well as improving academic performance, communication skills (you’ve got to talk to each other) and family relations between parent and child and siblings.
Most importantly, you care. Take the wins.
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