Why not give children fruit aren't they all the same? Actually, fruits and vegetables are very different. Vegetables tend to contain more fiber and different vitamins and antioxidants than fruits. There are a variety of vegetables each has a unique nutrient content. Therefore, variety is the key.
Introduce vegetables, when they are young. Start out with vegetables that are relatively sweet with no preservatives or added sugar. Introduce vegetables before you introduce fruit. Sweet peas, carrots, acorn squash, sweet potatoes, and yams are good starter vegetables.
For older children, sneak veggies into their food. Try zucchini bread. Sneak shredded carrots, corn, cabbage, and squash into the meat loaf. You can also sneak vegetables into spaghetti and lasagna. Try broccoli with their favorite type of cheese.
Start a new tradition. Every other day, have your child eat a new vegetable. Promise that they only have to taste it. If they don't like it, they don't have to eat any more. Giving children a choice makes allows them to be more flexible.
Be hands on. Grow a container garden and allow your children to help. Also, allow your children to help you prepare the meals.
If all else fails, bribe them. "If you eat your vegetables sweetie, you can have some chocolate cake for dessert." Make sure they eat all of them before getting dessert.
For more information:
American Dietetic Association
http://www.eatright.org
Nutrio.com
http://www.nutrio.com
Go To Page: 1
