Sargent Solutions: Healthy Eating Habits

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Updated: 10:12 PM Sep 8, 2010 Sargent Solutions: Healthy Eating Habits This week's Sargent Solutions focuses on nutritional steps to help fight childhood obesity. You'll be saving your health and your wallet by following these simple steps. Posted: 7:49 PM Sep 8, 2010 Reporter: Tiffani Sargent Email Address: tiffani.sargent@newsplex.com

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September 8, 2010

It is estimated that more than 30% of all kids and teenagers in Virginia are overweight or obese. That's why experts say good nutrition is more important than ever.

Just like your car needs a specific type of fuel to keep its engine running smooth, humans need good nutrition. This is especially true for growing children like growing two year old, Gabriella. Margarita Caldente, Gabriella's mother explains, "I really like to feed my child at home with the food that I prepare for her and make sure that I see what she's eating."

Jane O'Kelly's grandchildren are also developing healthy nutrition habits thanks to good examples at home. O'Kelly adds, "I remember taking Bailey, our little grandson, to the grocery store when we first moved here and instead of a cookie or whatever he would want broccoli. I'm not kidding really."

Not all children are so fortunate. With more and more parents working around the clock to bring home the bacon, sometimes junk food is not only fast, but it's also more affordable.

So when you go to the store, you want to have a plan. Select items that are good for you and taste good. When you do this, you're going to save a lot of money down the line. However, it's easier said than done, that's why Sargent Solutions turned to Virginia Cooperative Extension for help.

Small changes are key, according to Janice Brock, who helps with the Smart Choices Nutrition Education Program.

For instance, when it comes to sugary sodas, if you're drinking five a week, start off drinking four until you get down to maybe one a week.

Instead of burgers and fries, Brock says brown bag it. You'll not only improve the nutrition value but also save thousands of dollars a year.

Be creative with fruits and veggies, making meals more colorful and fun. Being prepared also helps, like making school lunches the night before. Buying seasonal fruits and veggies in bulk can also save you big bucks.

Healthy habits don't come easy but with a little will power and creativity, kids will catch on. Brock says knowledge is power and what they munch on now will determine their future health habits.

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