It only takes one person to change your life: You

…so what are you waiting for?

As a mom to two beautiful young girls—a spirited toddler and a sweet infant—I’ve always been conscious of the choices I make for their well-being. But it wasn’t until recently that I began to scrutinize what goes on our plates and in our pantry with a newfound intensity.

The catalyst for this shift was a wave of social media posts and videos highlighting the potential links between food additives and hyperactivity in children, which intrigued and slightly alarmed me, prompting deeper research. What I discovered was eye-opening: many ingredients allowed in foods in the United States are banned in other countries. The food we consume often contains additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients that are not permitted in Europe and other parts of the world, and the potential impacts of these substances, particularly on young children, made me reevaluate my kitchen practices.

Determined to make a change, I started paying closer attention to the labels on everything I bought. I focused on finding more natural and wholesome options, aiming to reduce the number of artificial ingredients in our diet. While I haven’t completely eliminated all the less desirable items, I’ve made significant strides in making our pantry and fridge healthier.

Here are some of the changes I’ve implemented:

1. Switching from Plastic to Glass: I replaced most of our plastic containers with glass ones. Glass is a safer and more sustainable option, reducing our exposure to chemicals like BPA that can leach from plastic into our food. I even swapped out the plastic baby bottles and bought all glass bottles.
2. Choosing Whole Foods: Instead of processed snacks, I now buy fresh fruits, vegetables and yogurts low in sugar and. that contain only natural ingredients. These whole foods are nutrient-rich and free from artificial additives.
3. Reading Labels: I became a label detective. If an ingredient list has words I can’t pronounce, I put it back on the shelf. This simple rule helps in avoiding unnecessary chemicals and preservatives.
4. Cooking More at Home: Preparing meals from scratch allows me to control what goes into our food. I’ve started experimenting with new recipes, incorporating more organic and locally-sourced ingredients.

Doing What I Can, Where I Can

It’s important to note that I haven’t been able to change absolutely everything. Balancing a busy family life with the goal of maintaining a healthy kitchen can be challenging. There are times when convenience wins out, and that’s okay. The key is to do what you can, where you can.

• Budget Constraints: Organic and natural products can sometimes be more expensive. I prioritize the items that I believe will make the most significant impact and look for sales and bulk buying options to save money.
• Time Management: As a working mom with a toddler and an infant, finding time to cook everything from scratch isn’t always feasible. I prepare what I can in advance and choose healthier pre-made options when needed.
• Gradual Transition: Making these changes all at once isn’t practical. I focus on one area at a time, allowing my family to adjust and ensuring that the changes are sustainable.

I’ll dive further into these challenges and how I navigate them in upcoming posts so be sure to follow!

Tips for a Healthier Kitchen

If you’re considering making similar changes, here are some tips to help you get started:

• Start Small: Don’t feel overwhelmed. Begin with one small change at a time, like swapping out sugary cereals for whole-grain options.
• Get Informed: Knowledge is power. Spend some time researching the ingredients in your favorite foods.
• Shop Smart: Farmers’ markets and organic stores can be great places to find fresh, natural products.
• Involve Your Kids: Make the transition fun for your children by involving them in shopping and cooking. It’s a great way to teach them about healthy eating.

The Journey Continues

This journey is ongoing. I’m continually learning and adapting, striving to provide the best for my family. The changes I’ve made have not only benefited our health but also fostered a greater appreciation for the food we eat and the environment we live in.

Remember, perfection isn’t the goal—progress is. Every small change you make is a step towards a healthier, happier home. If I can do it, so can you. Here’s to a healthier kitchen and a healthier family!