What's a Parent to Do? They Want Kids to Eat Better, But Conflicting Information and Obstacles Abound
Enter Mom-RD, a Program Connecting Families and Registered Dietitians
Busy parents want reliable information and practical tips on how best to feed their families.
That's why Wendy's has paired with the American Dietetic Association (ADA) to create Mom-RD -- a program that connects parents directly with registered dietitians (RDs), food and nutrition experts who are certified by the ADA -- for information and advice on family nutrition.
To develop the program, Wendy's commissioned a national survey of 500 moms to determine their top family nutrition challenges and questions. Overall, nearly half of moms say nutrition information seems to change from day to day, and 30 percent find the conflicting advice confusing. Because
moms make most family nutrition decisions, they want to feel confident they are making smart choices in the foods they feed their families.
Wendy's latest step in supporting families includes a new Web site -- http://www.Mom-RD.com . The site offers free information on family nutrition from three registered dietitians who are moms: Rachel Brandeis, MS, RD; Heidi McIndoo, MS, RD; and Victoria Shanta Retelny, RD, LD. Their
personal and professional experience enables them to provide real-life insights and tips that range from how to please picky eaters to how to eat well on-the-go.
"Mom-RD.com breaks down nutrition information in ways that are easy to understand," says McIndoo. "As a parent, I consider the site a valuable tool that can help moms gain confidence in choosing fresh, quality food in restaurants and at home."
Mom-RD.com also features interactive elements such as weekly polls where parents can see what other parents are dealing with ("Do your kids ask you to buy unhealthy foods that they've tried and 'loved' at friends' houses?") and an "Ask Mom-RD" section where parents can submit questions
and get responses from the three RD experts. Short feature articles written by RDs also educate parents on how best to address such issues as how to deal with what kids might be eating on their own at school, or how to get kids to eat more fruits and vegetables.
Want to eat healthy, but you’re always on the go? Try these tips:
On long commutes or shopping trips, pack fresh fruit, low-fat string cheese sticks, or a handful of unsalted nuts to help you avoid stopping for sweet or fatty snacks.
Since meals are not typically served on airplane flights, bring a snack like fresh or raisins, whole-wheat crackers or low-fat string cheese in your carry-on bag or purse.
You can find healthy options along your commute. At an airport, gas station or on your way to the train, choose low-fat granola bars, low-calorie energy bars, fruit or nuts.
Plan ahead. If you know you’re going to be gone all day, think about what quick restaurants are nearby that offer a variety of fresh or healthy choices.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. If you’re pressed for time in the morning, prepare the night before. Buy single-serve portions of orange juice, milk or 100% juice and individually packaged boxes of whole-grain unsweetened cereal. You also can pack hard-boiled eggs or instant oatmeal for work.
It’s not always easy to eat healthfully while on the go -- especially when you’re starved and the vending machine is your only option. Opt for cheese or peanut butter crackers, animal crackers, graham crackers, dried fruit, pretzels or granola bars.
When running errands, use cut-up vegetables as on-the-go snacks versus chips.
Feeling a little sluggish? Instead of reaching for a sugary treat, try a protein bar (look for one with at least 10grams of protein and no more than 300 calories) or fresh fruit smoothies with protein powder.
Choose fruit or salad options when available in fast food meals.
Water is essential. Being on the go all day can dehydrate you, giving you a false sense of hunger. Make sure to stock your car or purse with plenty of water for you and your children. Women should aim for nine cups of total fluids each day, while men should drink 13 cups each day.