LOF: Podcast - Your Kids & Food: What should we do as parents?

·42 min·4 clips

How does a parent get a 13-year-old who hates vegetables to eat spinach without a fight?

The episode begins with Mike introducing the topic of kids and food, joined by co-host Coach Chuck. They start by highlighting Carmelo's fundraiser, which collected $3,000 in food for needy families. Chuck shares his experience as a parent, noting that toddlers may eat varied foods but older kids, like his 13-year-old son, often resist vegetables, leading to creative solutions like spinach littles. Mike discusses the importance of exposure rather than forcing foods, using examples like mixing spinach nuggets with regular chicken nuggets. Chuck talks about connecting nutrition to kids' passions, such as explaining how food can reduce soreness from wrestling. The hosts address the pitfalls of over-restriction, with Chuck sharing a story about his daughter hiding chocolate wrappers. Mike cites data showing that 40% of daily calories for kids aged 2-18 come from empty calories, emphasizing the need to reduce sugar and trans fats. They explore alternatives like organic ketchup and cauliflower bites that mimic tater tots. Chuck describes family activities like walks and workouts, including a family workout designed by Carmelo that was shared by their school. Mike suggests involving kids in cooking and grocery shopping to build engagement. Chuck explains how his son independently limits carbs after observing his parents, highlighting the power of modeling behavior. The hosts discuss using positive reinforcement without relying on food rewards, and Chuck emphasizes communication and allowing treats in moderation. They conclude with three takeaways each, focusing on moderation, self-reflection, and involvement.

As heard by us

A grounded conversation about soda, fridge treats, and the food habits parents can still shape at home.

Parents get a practical, lightly messy look at how everyday household choices can shape a child's relationship with food. Mike and Coach Chuck begin with sugary drinks, using Chuck's own home as the example: water as the norm, a rejected taste of orange soda, and the occasional…

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Why you'd press play

Want to make peace with the soda shelf and the secret chocolate stash?

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