Common Questions about Healthy Eating and Family Meals

Why are family meals important?
Family meals give families a special time to listen to each other and connect. Parents can talk with their children about their day and share valuable information. Parents can also teach children about new foods and a healthy diet. Children who eat meals with their parents regularly tend to eat more fruits and vegetables, eat less snacks or unhealthy foods, and are less likely to smoke or drink alcohol.

What is a "healthy diet"?
Eating a variety of foods, including whole grains, low fat milk, fruits and vegetables, and lean meats are all part of a healthy diet. MyPyramid.gov provides parents and children information on what foods and how much food to eat for a healthy diet.

What milk should my family and I drink?
The best choice for adults and children over two years of age is 1% low fat or fat free milk. Adults and older children do not need the extra fat and calories that are in 2% and whole milk. 1% low fat and fat free milk still provide all of the calcium and vitamins A and D as 2% and whole milk – without all of the fat.

Whole milk is best for children between the ages of 1 and 2 years. At this age, the extra fat is necessary for growth and proper brain and nervous system development.

Children under 1 years old should not drink cow’s milk. Their bodies cannot properly digest cow’s milk at that age.

What fruits and vegetables are best to eat?
All fruits and vegetables are good for you! Remember, with fruits and vegetables – variety is key! Pick brightly colored fruits and vegetables in dark greens, oranges, yellows, reds, blues and purples, and whites and tans. These tend to have more antioxidants and other good-for-you nutrients than their less colorful counterparts.

How much should my child eat?
The right amount of food to eat varies from child to child and also depends on the age. Children's appetites can change day to day, and even from one meal to the next. Children are good at determining how much food they should eat. When children are hungry, allow them to eat. When they are full, allow them to stop eating and do not pressure them to "finish their plate." MyPyramid.gov can help you determine proper portions for your child depending on their age and gender.

My child is a picky eater. How do I introduce new foods?
Young children can be picky eaters because they are nervous about trying new foods that have different smells or textures. Providing a new food again and again will allow them to become familiar with the food, and they will be more likely to try it. By offering a variety of foods for every meal, the child will have plenty to choose from. It’s important to not bribe children into eating something, by offering them dessert or something else. Keeping meals relaxed, with a variety of options, will keep meals from being a battle-ground, and your child will slowly start to try new things.

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For common questions on milk, click here

For common questions on fruits and vegetables, click here

For common questions on physical activity, click here