Combatting Childhood Obesity

Recently, we have all been bombarded with the fact that there is an epidemic of childhood obesity in the US. Seemingly gone are the days when kids gathered to play sports without any adult supervision or organization. With the advent of video games and big-screen, high definition TV, it is a sedentary life style for the majority.

The saddest part about childhood obesity is that it usually leads to adult obesity. As I have gotten older, I can attest that it is much easier to put on pounds than to take them off. It is hard. This whole subject is so complicated and is certainly different for every individual.

Rather than harping on the reasons for this epidemic, my purpose rather is to tout two cookbooks currently on the market designed to offset childhood obesity. In the Kitchen with Kids is a collection of recipes from members of Junior Leagues around the country. These recipes are from the mom’s of young children who understand the need for healthy and nutritious foods—and yet, they’re recipes that kids like.

Each recipe is illustrated with how-to steps and a hero shot of the finished dish. Buying this book doubles in its reward, because the profits support the Kids in the Kitchen educational program conducted by these Junior Leagues, which concentrates on food and nutrition in their local communities. The program was developed by the local Leagues and the Association of Junior Leagues International.

The second book is No Whine with Dinner by Registered Dieticians Liz Weiss and Janice Newell Bissex, also known as the Meal Makeover Moms. Both of these ladies hold Master of Science degrees along with their RD certification. Under the umbrella of Meal Makeover Moms, these ladies have created an adorable cookbook of kid friendly, appetizing, and nutritious recipes to fit any palate. The book is also loaded with valuable nutritional and product information. Personally, I love this book.

Please feel free to share your stories on what you do to insure your children’s health.

Great Idea for Busy Moms with Picky Eaters

Every day there seems to be a major article on childhood obesity and improper nutrition in children’s eating habits. A huge part of our culture involves “fast food”. Everyone is on the go to soccer, cub scouts, girl scouts, PTA, Little League baseball and softball, swimming, cheering, and on, and on, an on! Yes, it is tough to cram it all in.

However, eating healthy and nutritious meals is important. This is where the Meal Makeover Mom’s new cookbook No Whine with Dinner comes into play. You will love it.
Janice Newell Bissex and Liz Weiss are registered dietitians and the Meal Makeover Moms. As two of the nation’s top experts on family nutrition, they’re on a mission to help busy families eat better.

Their simple food philosophy is that kids – even picky ones — will eat nutritious food without complaint as long as it looks and tastes great. To do that, The Moms give family-favorite recipes a healthy makeover by “weaving in” fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy oils and more.
Their website provides a virtual smorgasbord of helpful tools including recipes, cooking & mealtime tips videos, a bi-monthly newsletter, 7-day meal planner, shopping list, along with their blog and the weekly radio podcast. Here's a sample recipe on a classic dinnertime favorite:

Mom's Makeover Meatloaf

Ingredients
One 15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 pound lean ground beef (90% or higher)
2 large eggs, beaten
1 large carrot, peeled and shredded (about 1 cup)
1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
1/3 cup ground flaxseed
1/4 cup ketchup
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons ketchup
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly oil or coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
2. Mash the beans in a large bowl using the back of a large fork or spoon until smooth but still a bit chunky. Add the beef, eggs, carrot, bread crumbs, ground flaxseed, 1/4 cup ketchup, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste and mix until well combined.
3. Place the meat mixture in the middle of the baking dish. Shape into a 6×8-inch rectangle, about 1 1/2 inches high. Spread the 2 tablespoons of ketchup evenly on the top and sides.
4. Bake until an instant-read meat thermometer registers 160°F, 50 to 60 minutes. Let stand for a couple of minutes before serving.

Their second cookbook, No Whine with Dinner, is scheduled to be released in October.
Be sure to check this title out along with In the Kitchen with Kids to arm your kitchen with two “can’t miss” cookbooks that are both healthy and delicious-your kids will love you for it.