Easy Ways to Eat Healthy as a Family

Recently, a good friend asked for advice on how she could change her family's eating habits.  She wanted to start making healthier choices but didn't know where to begin.  I totally understand.    One of the great disadvantages of living in the information age is it's easy to get overwhelmed with too much information.  Who do you trust?  What type of lifestyle is healthiest?  What does clean eating, paleo, vegan, or grain-free mean?  Which is best?  

I'm a bit passionate about food.  Yes, I'm a foodie.  I'm a healthy foodie.  Mostly.  Unless I'm attacked by an apple pie or 7 layer chocolate cake.  I'd describe myself as a 90% clean / whole food eater which I would loosely define as eating (and serving my family) whole grains, proteins, fruits and veggies, and foods without mystery ingredients on the labels.   I strongly believe that as a parent, I am responsible to expose my boys to and teach them healthy habits in all areas - emotionally, spiritually, and physically.  This drives me to strive for health and balance in these areas as well.  

Food is definitely my love language.  Not only do my taste buds delight in scrumptious tasties but my heart revels in bringing others joy by cooking for them.  And who can't use a little more joy?   

photo: fancycrave

I was flattered that my friend asked me for help.  Of course I would help!  She knows that health is a big deal to me and she's spent enough time with me in the kitchen to know I'm passionate about what I plate, both in flavor and in quality.  

These are my non-professional and easy suggestions for making healthier food choices: