Two new studies may make it easier for moms to get their kids to eat and enjoy their greens. Both studies were conducted by Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB) president Brian Wansink, PhD, the John Dyson Professor of Consumer Behavior at Cornell University, and funded by Birds Eye, the country’s leading vegetable brand that recently launched a three-year campaign to inspire kids to eat more veggies. The first study of 500 mothers with young children found that vegetables helped enhance the perceived taste of the entree and made the meal appear to be more complete. The presence of vegetables on the plate also made the meal preparers appear to be more thoughtful and attentive. “These findings underscore the concept that vegetables make the meal. Vegetables do so much more than provide important nutrients, they’re helping to make the entire meal more appealing and even making the person serving the meal appear to be more loving and caring,” Wansink said. The second study reinforced the idea that parents may be giving up too early if they claim their kids don’t like vegetables. Instead, Wansink said it’s better to focus on the vegetables kids will eat, and not on the ones they won’t. Interviewing an ethnically diverse panel of 500 mothers with two children, Wansink and colleagues had participants identify the favourite vegetable of each child along with their own, and the menu of the five most frequently eaten meals in their homes. The results indicated that 83 percent of the children in the study had a favourite vegetable their mother could easily name, and 53 percent of the oldest children had the same favourite vegetable as their mother. There were six vegetables that composed 80 percent of the favourites: Corn (32.2percent) – the favourite for boys Broccoli (29.4 percent) – the favourite for girls Carrots (23.2 percent) Green beans (17.2 percent) Potatoes (11.8 percent) Tomatoes (11.4 percent) The five most popular dinner meals for children were pastas, tacos, hamburgers, meat balls and pork chops. Broccoli was the most preferred vegetable for children and mothers, except for the youngest male children. “Children may not like all vegetables all of the time, but they may like some vegetables some of the time,” Wansink said. “Keep serving the vegetables that kids prefer and don’t be discouraged if they turn up their noses at other vegetables. They may eventually like them if you continue to offer them, and if they see you enjoy them, too. But celebrate these little victories and find ways to modify meals to accommodate your kids’ favourite vegetables,” he added. The studies were presented at the SNEB’s annual conference. Source: Indian Express
Here’s how to remain motivated to follow a healthy lifestyle
New Delhi, (IANS) Focus on the process of maintaining a healthy lifestyle is more important than the end goal, said a top neurologist on Friday, highlighting measures to remain motivated while on a healthy lifestyle journey.
Embarking on a journey towards a healthier lifestyle can be challenging, but staying motivated is the key to long-term success.
Taking to a post on the social media platform X, Dr Sudhir Kumar from Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad offered practical advice to maintain motivation while also achieving lasting health improvements.
"Focusing on the process rather than fixating solely on the end goal is crucial," Dr Kumar said.
Emphasising the importance of enjoying daily activities that contribute to health, such as walking or running, he said "Choose activities you enjoy, as this increases the likelihood of regular participation".
Dr Kumar also highlighted the benefits of starting the day early with outdoor activities.
"Embracing mornings can boost your mood and energy levels. The fresh air, sunrise, and sounds of nature invigorate the senses and fill you with positive energy," he explained.
Strength training is another essential component of a healthy lifestyle, he said.
"Incorporating strength training can improve overall well-being. This can be done at home if gym access is limited, but it's good to seek guidance from a fitness trainer to ensure proper technique and progression," said the neurologist.
Regarding diet, he advised to make simple and sustainable changes. "Gradually shift to a diet you can maintain long-term. This makes it easier to stick to healthy eating habits," he said.
Dr Kumar also stressed the importance of cutting down on sugar, including alternatives like honey and jaggery.
"Reducing sugar intake can diminish cravings over time. It may take a month to adjust, but the long-term benefits are worth it," he said.
He also recommended adjusting plate proportions from being carb-heavy to protein-rich. "This change can be introduced gradually to avoid significant resistance from family members," Dr Kumar said.In addition, he suggested tracking progress by monitoring metrics such as weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, and blood test results. "Seeing improvements can be a powerful motivator," he said, also urging people to share the stories and inspire others which “can further boost your motivation. Here’s how to remain motivated to follow a healthy lifestyle | MorungExpress | morungexpress.com
Subscribe to:Comments (Atom)
