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Family Time

in The Too Busy to Diet Blog on June 18, 2015

Written by Allie McTighe, dietetic student at Miami University of Ohio: One of my favorite things about the summertime is having cookouts with my family. I enjoy grilling out, sitting on the patio to eat, and listening to music. This past week we grilled out chicken and steak skewers, had a fruit salad with watermelon, pineapple, grapes, and strawberries, and a house salad with tomatoes and cucumbers. The chicken skewers we lightly marinated in low sodium teriyaki sauce, and they were delicious. Both of the skewers had green onion and red pepper intertwined between the meat. After having the skewers I talked to my family about how they liked them. My dad mentioned that one of the only ways he enjoys eating vegetables is if we grill them. This brought an idea to mind. At the next cookout I am going to have my dad grill some zucchini, eggplant, and tomato and see how they enjoy these vegetables.

Additionally, this week I was reading one of my nutrition books and it talked about the importance of sitting and eating meals as a family. My family has always made eating dinner together an importance. The book talked about how families that eat together consume adequate nutrients and often eat healthier than individuals who do not eat together. I think that eating together as a family is important throughout our lifetime, and especially important during childhood so children receive the proper nutrients. My challenge for you this week is to find time to eat together with your family. Sit down and spend time together. See the food available and ask yourself if you are receiving proper nutrition. Does the meal contain lean protein, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains? Use dinner as a time to catch up with your family and receive proper nutrition.