Kiddipedia
Busy parents, I understand the struggle – the battles at the dinner table with picky eaters can be exhausting and stressful, especially during the winter months when you want their nutritious meals to help fight off any sniffles. But fear not, there are effective strategies to turn mealtime woes into mealtime wins! If you’re tired of searching for ways to tackle your child’s finicky eating habits, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, I’ll share five hacks to nourish your fussy eater while reducing your stress levels.
Hack #1: Embrace the Power of High-Quality Organ Meats
When it comes to boosting your child’s nutrition, few things can rival the nutrient density of high-quality organ meats. Yes, you read that right! Incorporating things like liver, heart, or spleen into dishes your child already enjoys, such as spaghetti bolognese, can offer a significant nutritional punch. Liver, in particular, is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with vitamins A, B12, and iron essential for brain development and overall wellbeing. I often recommend cracking a couple Cell Squared Organic Beef Liver capsules or a scoop of powder into homemade meals or smoothies, providing a reliable source of organ goodness, especially beneficial during the cooler months.
Hack #2: Camouflage with Colours
Children are drawn to bright, colourful foods. Take advantage of this by incorporating a variety of colourful vegetables into meals. Blend them into smooth sauces, add them as toppings to pizzas, or create rainbow-inspired wraps. The more colours you introduce, the more nutrients your child is likely to consume, helping to bolster their immune system.
Hack #3: Get Them Involved
Turn meal preparation into a fun family activity. Invite your child to join you in the kitchen, whether it’s washing veggies, mixing ingredients, or assembling their own wraps or bowls. When kids participate in making their food, they’re more likely to try new things and develop a sense of ownership over their meals, a valuable experience during the winter months when spending more time indoors.
Hack #4: Keep the Family Active
While the cold weather may make motivation wane, staying active is essential for the whole family’s health. Exercise not only warms you up but also strengthens the immune system, helping to fight off any infections that come your way. Bundle up and take the family for a brisk walk or engage in indoor activities like dance parties or yoga sessions to keep everyone moving and healthy.
Hack #5: Stay Hydrated Together
Staying hydrated isn’t just a summer thing – it’s crucial year-round. Encourage your family to keep up with their water intake, ensuring hydration levels remain topped up. If cold drinks are unappealing, switch to herbal teas for something warming and hydrating. By staying hydrated, everyone’s body temperature remains regulated, and their immune systems function optimally, aiding in energy levels and overall well being, which is particularly important during the winter season when infections are more prevalent.
Feeding a family doesn’t have to be a stressful battle, even in the midst of winter. By embracing these five hacks, you can nourish your family effectively while reducing mealtime stress. Patience is key; it takes time for everyone to develop a liking for new flavours and textures. Stay creative, involve them in meal preparation, and make the experience enjoyable. With these strategies in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to transforming your family’s eating habits into healthier ones, regardless of the winter chill.
So, gather around the kitchen, put on those aprons, and let the culinary adventures begin! Your family’s health is waiting to be nourished, and armed with these hacks, you’re ready to make it happen. Happy cooking, moving and happy eating!
by: Steph Lowe, The Natural Nutritionist & Cell Squared‘s Nutrition Expert
