Small changes can make a big difference
By Carie Moore
My dad found out he had diabetes about 6 years ago. It has been a roller coaster ride for my family with diet and meds. I was working out back then, but my nutrition wasn't always on par. I thought to myself, “Would I rather make an adjustment to my life going into my 40s rather than having to do it at 60 and be overweight, out of shape and hooked on Mello Yello and maple frosted doughnuts?”
Do I still have maple frosted doughnuts? Of course, I do. As a treat. And when I do eat one, it's not the end of the world. It's okay.
I'm not on any diet. It was truly a lifestyle change, that is my new normal. Many of the little substitutions or additions I’ve made in the family meals go unnoticed if I don't say anything. We have so many choices as consumers. They make all kinds of pasta – protein, wheat, veggie – I mix them all and they don't know the difference.
My kids like kiwis. Singles are 79 cents and a whole pack is $4 so we buy the big pack.
We used to buy dip. Now it's unflavored Greek yogurt with the dressing/seasoning packets added to them (ranch, spicy, spinach) you can make the same dip for the same price but better for everyone.
My family still gets tator tots or their new fav Corn Tots...these are delicious!!! I don't do cauliflower flavored anything...pizza crust, mashed, riced, nope not for me, only cooked and eaten with broccoli.
They still get corn dogs and chicken nuggets but it's about balance. They are aware that I’m eating healthier and grandma and grandpa are too and that it's important, but it's okay to have other things.
I know as a farmer, consumer, and a parent, when it’s close to payday or we’re out of town, I don’t have to feel bad for going through the drive through and getting a bunch of dollar menu items to feed my kids.
If I have a $20 bill on me, it’s ok to not go to the store and try to feed them all on an organic salad on that money and it not be enough. They will each benefit more from the combo meal instead.
Sure, some places I feel more confident in their food products and standards, so we are more likely to go there. Mainly though, I have faith in our food production standards that have been put in place. So, whether I feed them fast food or a meal at home, I am doing my job and feeding my kids.
Food is about balance and moderation, quality and quantity. So, when they can make their own choice, they don't have to make drastic changes. They know sweet potatoes taste good and a veggie platter and homemade dip is awesome. They don't see me beat myself up when I go out to our favorite pizza buffet. They see me eat a big salad, order a thin crust taco pizza, and still have a little dessert and ice cream.
Start small, that’s how change happens and continues to make a big difference.