Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
“How do I get my family to eat better?” “I know that I should eat better, but how?”

Concerns such as these are commonly heard, and when asked to speak to a group this seems to be “the topic” – the desire to eat better, help family members learn about eating better. In the past year, approximately 194 people participated in programs presented by ISU Extension to learn more about healthy eating – why, how, and balancing healthy eating with regular physical activity.

Response:
Seventy-two people were asked to share comments about changes they have made since the program/programs they participated in. Thirty-one responded – reporting that they have improved their diet in two or more ways … such as more whole grain foods, more fruits, more vegetables, more milk and other dairy products, less fat, less added sugar.

Impact:
Comments such as these were received:

Thank you so much for the motivation. We try to avoid chips, pop, high sugar added foods. We are adding more variety in vegetables and fruits.

You've shown me my family needs a “balance” of foods. We need more vegetables – and are working on that.

We are having fun experimenting with “new” fruits and vegetables.

We are drinking more milk and more water vs soda and fruit-flavored, highly sweetened beverages.

One group I spoke to was working through a “Living Well with a Disability” series. The group leader shared that even several months later they are still talking about making healthier food choices. They even remind one another with prompts such as, ‘you could have had _______ instead of _______.'

The leader of another group – where I did a series of three programs, commented that I see people bringing different things for snacks and lunch – healthier choices – less chips, candy - more fruit. Some are drinking less pop – more water. They even make comments about foods that are on special as they are reading the newspapers at break time. And, they are keeping the kitchen and break room so much cleaner!

Contact:
Denise Wyland
Nutrition & Health Field Specialist
710 N 2nd Ave E, Suite 103; PO Box 348
Rock Rapids, IA 51246-0348
phone: 712.472.2576 fax: 712.472.2578