small changes = big impact

It's common to feel overwhelmed when faced with health issues. Especially when it comes to our kids. Just like adults, kids can be resistant to change - even when it's for their own good. If taking on all of the diet and lifestyle changes at once feels too difficult, you may end up doing nothing at all.

Sometimes it's best to approach these changes in small bites. Implement one change at a time to allow your child to start feeling better and gain confidence in the plan. I've found that once kids start feeling better, they become more responsible for their own health because they don't want to go back to feeling bad.
Need some specific examples? 

• If you're trying to eliminate processed foods from your child's diet, but they're hooked on chicken nuggets and Kraft Mac & Cheese, start by substituting one healthy replacement food at a time. Make some homemade chicken nuggets (Danielle Walker has a great recipe here) to serve with their mac & cheese. Once they adapt to that change, you can try swapping out the mac & cheese for a healthier version.
• If your kids love delivery pizza, you can start by making pizza at home. Buy pre-made dough at Trader Joe's and let the kids pick out their toppings. Be sure their meat toppings are nitrate free and have them include at least one vegetable! If your goal is anti-inflammatory non-processed foods, you can eventually switch to a grain-free pizza crust (I like cassava flour or cauliflower crusts). 
• Do your kids drink soda? Get them off soda and onto fruit infused water. You'll find some great ideas for naturally flavored water here.  

As you start to eliminate processed foods and sugar from your child's diet, you'll notice their tastes and cravings change. Start small - even a small step is a step in the right direction.
Get more tips at McCannNutrition.com.