Savor the season of connection
OPINION — Welcome November, the “Month of Connection.” At least that is what I call it, because people tend to get together all month long. Then the culminating event for most of us will be on Thursday, Nov. 26, Thanksgiving Day.
Actually, it gets better because food is the major connector. That makes this month the perfect time to get the word out about nutrition. Nature has come forth with a wonderful lesson designed to enhance this social time: Foods that look like parts of the body are especially good for those parts. As it turns out the sweet potato, very popular this month, looks like the pancreas, and that means eating it helps the pancreas do its job of regulating blood sugar.
Children are not home very much these days. However, on this one day many families will gather, and food will be a big focus. That is great because eating is both for nutrition and bonding. We “break bread” to share time together.
Children really need our help these days. They have to know that food is not a toy or something for play. These are four basic guidelines for teaching children.
- Serve them foods that have different colors and textures.
- Tell them about the need to chew all food pieces well.
- Avoid giving them snacks in strollers, while walking or during play.
- Serve meals at a table and enjoy time together.
Here is a quirky thought but a good one: Books provide nutrition for the brain, and reading to children is the absolute best. However, in reality this activity includes being able to give your full attention. Not so easy these days. Imagine that “in-person” has become a valued commodity to savor. Savor it well this November. Happy Thanksgiving!
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