We Can! (
Ways to
Enhance
Children’s
Activity &
Nutrition) is an American education program designed to give parents and communities a way to help children learn to eat nutritious foods. As parents, you can do a lot to help your children learn healthy eating habits and maintain a healthy weight. Involving them in meal preparation and cooking can motivate them to try new foods – and it is a good way to spend time together as a family.
What is a “healthy” diet?
A healthy eating plan is one that:
- emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat or fat-free milk products
- includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, and nuts
- is low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium/salt, and added sugars
- stays within your calorie needs
Focus on Healthy Food Choices – Choose the GO, SLOW, and WHOA foods:
GO FOODS – are the lowest in fats and added sugar. They are
nutrient dense with a better source of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients important to health. Examples of GO foods are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fat-free and low-fat milk products, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, egg whites, or egg substitute.
SLOW FOODS – are higher in fat, added sugar, and calories. SLOW foods include vegetables with added fat, white refined bread flour, low- fat mayonnaise, 2% low fat milk products, peanut butter, pizza, baked chips, and mac and cheese. Have slow foods sometimes.
WHOA FOODS – are the highest in fat and sugar. They are
calorie dense foods and low in vitamins, minerals, and other needed nutrients. Have WHOA foods once in a while, and when you do have them, have small portions. Examples of WHOA foods are whole-milk products, fried foods, bakery sweets, candy, soda, chips, sugary cereals, and creamy salad dressings.
Bon Appetit !
