Meal Plan for Overweight Kids

Children in the United States are gaining more weight more quickly these days. Obesity is a problem that looms large over our entire population. It's hard to keep your child on track when it comes to eating healthy foods, but a meal plan can help.

The Food Pyramid

• Although the food pyramid looks slightly different now than it did in the 1980s, the basic message is the same. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that children concentrate on eating fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Milk is also important for growing youngsters. They say to go light on meats and proteins and to stay away from processed sugars and carbohydrates.

A Weekly Plan

• Buy healthy foods in bulk so you are prepared to make the meals your kids deserve.

  As a parent, you can shop a week in advance if you have the right plan in place. Write out your child's meals for each day and include several pyramid foods in each meal. Then as meal time approaches, you already have a list and a recipe at hand to make a nutritious meal or snack for your child.

Set a Good Example

• Healthy foods can be just as appetizing as junk food if presented correctly.

  If you want your child to eat healthy, the best thing you can do is eat healthy yourself. Children learn their habits from their parents, and if you set down the donut and pick up the salad, it will be easier to get your child to follow suit.