5 top tips to help your family eat healthier

Encouraging your family to adopt healthier habits can be challenging. From picky eaters to those set in their ways, finding a balance that satisfies everyone while still achieving your health goals can feel like an uphill battle.

But fear not, there is a way forward. When making changes to your diet, remember that nutrition is a science, but eating is a behavior. This means that any changes you make must appeal to both your body and mind in order to be sustainable.

Here are five tips to help you guide your family towards healthier habits without sacrificing enjoyment or causing unnecessary stress:

1. Take it slow

Don't try to overhaul your family's diet overnight. Start by making small changes gradually. For example, focus on improving snacking habits by trying one new snack each week. Setting realistic goals will make it easier for everyone to adjust.

2. Focus on variety

Instead of thinking about what to cut out of your diet, think about what you can add. Increasing plant diversity and trying new fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices can introduce different healthy plant compounds into your diet.

3. Include 'fun food'

Balance your meals between 'fuel food' that provides essential nutrients and energy, and 'fun food' that adds enjoyment to your diet. Both are important for a well-rounded dietary pattern and should be enjoyed in moderation.

4. Address your food environment

Rearrange your kitchen to make healthy foods more accessible. Store wholesome snacks in clear containers, and keep vegetables at eye level in the fridge. Get the whole family involved in meal prep and planning.

5. Meal prep together

Create a system for meal planning that involves everyone in the family. Have each member contribute a meal idea, and set requirements like including specific vegetables. Get inspired by watching food videos, browsing recipes, or exploring cookbooks.

Summary

Encouraging your family to eat better may require patience and creativity, but by involving everyone and making food a shared experience, you can help them develop healthier habits in the long run.