Nothing is more challenging than encouraging kids to eat healthy food. Keeping your young ones deprived from their favourite junk food can lead to various mental health problems.
Being a responsible parent, you need to handle t he situation patiently and focus on thinking something out of the box. Instead of eating pizzas, cold drinks, beverages, and fries, you can swap these food items with nutrient-rich yet tasty options.
Finding healthy options in Australia has become super easy because you can find various restaurants offering plant-based food menu, vegan and low-carb food depending on their customer’s specific requirements.
Here is a complete guide to help you swap junk food with healthy meals, especially for kids.
1. Eat Whole Food instead of Processed Ones
It is always good to make right choices and you can ditch processed foods, such as chips, candies and canned juices when go for grocery shopping.
Instead, pick whole foods, such as nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, much more. They are rich in minerals, vitamins, protein and other nutrients.
2. Swap Cold Drinks with Fresh Fruits
Do not forget to replace your sugar loaded juices and cold drinks with fresh fruits, such as oranges, mangos, pears, etc.
You can also prepare vegetable juice at home to add more nutrients.
3. Start Eating Nuts as Snacks
There is no denying that potato chips and packed popcorn available in the Australian markets are loaded with trans fat and other harmful chemicals.
If you are looking for a healthy option, you can eat a handful of mixed nuts and seeds. You can also add fresh fruits and berries to your yogurt and satiate your hunger pangs.
4. Look for Healthy Desserts
Sweet cravings are common in children and adults. Unfortunately, desserts available in the market, such as cakes, cookies, etc are loaded with sugar and fats.
So, you can swap unhealthy sweet options with fruits and dates. You can also eat dark chocolate instead of milk one as it offers antioxidants and other nutrients.
5. Opt for Plant-Based Options
Make a smart move and start eating plant-based food, such as chickpeas, lentils, etc. You should include these meals into your diet and satiate your hunger.
6. Ditch the Soda, Choose Infused Water
Soda is a major source of empty calories and excessive sugar intake. Instead, opt for refreshing infused water with combinations like cucumber-mint or citrus-berry. This not only keeps you hydrated but also adds a burst of natural flavors.
7. Smart Substitutes for Main Meals
When it comes to main meals, consider swapping processed and fast food options with homemade alternatives. You can opt for lean protein sources like grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
Whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, or sweet potatoes can replace refined grains, offering a nutrient boost.
Wrapping up
Swapping junk food for nutrient-rich alternatives can help you kids develop good eating habits. This can make a huge difference and keep you and the entire family healthy. It is good to create awareness about junk food and stop consuming them as much as possible.
