nwasianweekly.com
Aug. 19, 2006

Healthy eating starts early on

Asians and Asian Americans know the scenario well: We are invited to the home of a mother, a grandmother, an aunt or some other maternal figure. As she welcomes us inside, one of the first things she asks is “Have you eaten?”

In most Asian cultures, food is paramount. Mothers show their love to their children by putting extra food in their bowls. Lavish banquets are prepared to impress potential business clients. Wedding and birthday celebrations revolve around food.

It’s not just Asians who overindulge. Mainstream America is increasingly dependent on the convenience of fast food. And competition is causing restaurants to increase their portion sizes.

Such excess — gluttony, even — is taking a toll on our health. Obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure are becoming commonplace in America. Even the youngest of the young are affected by this overeating.

A recent study found that babies younger than 6 months old are more likely to be overweight than those 20 years ago. Since 1980, the percentage of overweight babies has jumped from 3 percent to nearly 6 percent. What’s more, researchers found that a child’s accelerated weight gain in his or her first months can indicate whether he or she will be overweight or have higher blood pressure as an adult.
Here is the lesson parents need to heed: Establish healthy eating habits for your child early on — while the baby is still in utero. If fresh fruits and vegetables are part of a baby’s palate, he or she will appreciate them as an adult.

Children can’t distinguish healthy from unhealthy foods, so it’s up to the parents to educate them. Steer clear of the candy aisle at the grocery store, no matter how much they scream or cry. Eating fruit can satisfy their sweet tooth just as easily. Turn off the TV when advertisements for sweets and fast food appear.

Parents are their children’s role models when it comes to eating, so eat what you want your children to eat. Pay attention to what you eat as well as how much you eat — because your children are watching you too.

Asian mothers may have difficulty coming to grips with this, but there are myriad ways besides food to show affection for your children. You can take them to the park. You can take a walk around the block together. You can read books to them or take them to the library. You can also do arts and crafts projects together.

Actually, controlling children’s portion sizes and keeping them away from fattening, high-calorie and processed foods is another way to show your love. The message you are sending is this: You care so much that you want to help them live long, healthy lives.

When it comes to teaching children about food and healthy lifestyles, the earlier, the better. They will carry those habits with them for the rest of their lives, so make sure they are taught well.

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