1. Take it slowly

Remember a healthy diet is for life - it’s not a race. Go slow, especially at the start. Add one new recipe a week, so the family is not overwhelmed with all the new dishes you introduce to the table. If you are looking to eliminate a particular food or product, then do it gradually over a period of one month for ease. Some dietary changes are going to take time getting used to. Reduce and eliminate slowly to help everyone can get used to the changes.

Please contact us if you have questions or want to learn more about our weight loss programs or Botox and Fillers: 

• To reach our AZ Clinics, call 602-374-7226 (2 Clinics in Mesa and Phoenix) 
• To reach our NM Clinics, call 505-888-9575 (3 Clinics in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe) or 575-222-4994 (Las Cruces)
• To reach our TX Clinic, call 214-296-0269 (Dallas)
• Or visit us online to schedule an appointment: http://fitmedicalweightloss.com/

2. Be gentle with your family

It is up to you whether you wish to announce your plan to the family but if you do, remember to take it easy on them if they stray from their good habits. It is easy to control what you eat on a day to day basis, but trying to regulate everything your family eats is slightly more difficult. Loosen the reins a little, encourage new habits and give them the tools to make the best choices for them.

3. Introduce substitutes

When you are trying to eliminate specific foods, opt for healthier alternatives. Alternate specific foods with a lower carb or reduced fat substitute. Committing to small changes regularly will make it easier for your family to adopt the healthy eating plan. You can even make healthier versions of your old favorites – chances are they may not even notice the difference.

4. Offer water regularly

Water is the best thing you can offer to your family so make sure it is available at all times. Forego the soda offering water as a mealtime substitute. Encourage them to take their water bottles wherever they go to quench their thirst and ease their cravings.

5. Let your family choose the meals they eat

When you are creating your meal plan for the week, ask everyone to pick one meal they would like in particular. Encourage their opinions and allow them to have a say in what is being prepared. You can also let the kids choose one fruit or vegetable to accompany each meal. That way it gives them something to look forward to.

6. Add extra vegetables to everything

Including extra vegetables in all meals is a great way to ensure your family is eating healthy. There are an enormous number of possibilities. Add them to casseroles, sauces, smoothies – whatever you can think of. Clever cooking has many benefits especially when it comes to overcoming fussy eaters.

7. Involve the family in the cooking process

Healthier habits start in the kitchen, and it is never too early to teach your kids the skills they need to make better food choices. When children are involved in the food preparation, mealtime can become less of a battle, and they learn so much about what to eat and how to cook. A win-win for everyone involved.

There is no denying that it is easier to stay on your weight loss program when everyone else in your family is making healthier choices as well. Remember a positive attitude is contagious, and once you start preparing healthier dishes for your family, you will never look back.

Please contact us if you have questions or want to learn more about our weight loss programs or Botox and Fillers: 

• To reach our AZ Clinics, call 602-374-7226 (2 Clinics in Mesa and Phoenix) 
• To reach our NM Clinics, call 505-888-9575 (3 Clinics in Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Santa Fe) or 575-222-4994 (Las Cruces)
• To reach our TX Clinic, call 214-296-0269 (Dallas)