Plant-Based Diets and Family Eating: The Benefits and Challenges of Making the Switch
Making the switch to a plant-based diet can be a big change for any individual, but it can be even more challenging when it comes to transitioning as a family. From picky eaters to busy schedules, there are a number of obstacles that can arise when transitioning to a plant-based diet. However, despite these challenges, the benefits of plant-based eating are numerous, from improved health outcomes to a reduced environmental impact.
A couple of years ago, my family and I switched to a plant-based diet. It was during Covid and we were thinking about our health and had some extra time and started watching documentaries such as ‘The Game Changers’ and ‘Forks over Knives”. After that we stopped buying deli meats, cheese, yogurt and other animal based foods. We didn’t eat a lot of meat to begin with so that aspect wasn’t too difficult for us.
In this blog post, I'll explore the possible challenges and benefits of transitioning to a plant-based diet as a family, and offer advice on how to involve children in meal planning and preparation.
Benefits of Plant-Based Diets for Families
A plant-based diet has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and obesity. If you would like to read more about the health benefits, read my blog post titled ‘Why should I follow a plant-based diet?’. Making the switch to a plant-based diet can also have a positive impact on the environment, as it can reduce the carbon footprint associated with animal agriculture.
Challenges of Plant-Based Diets for Families
One of the biggest challenges of transitioning to a plant-based diet as a family is getting everyone on board with the change. Picky eaters and children who are used to eating a certain way can be particularly challenging. In addition, busy schedules can make meal planning and preparation difficult, especially when transitioning to a new way of eating. For tips on cooking when you are busy, check out ‘No Time to Cook!’.
Another common challenge is ensuring that everyone is getting enough of the nutrients they need, such as protein, iron, and calcium. However, with careful planning and a variety of plant-based sources, these nutrients can be easily obtained on a plant-based diet. If you want to read more about some of these important nutrients, check out my blog posts ‘But where do you get your protein?!’ and ‘Calcium Rich Plant-Based Foods’.
Getting Children Involved in Meal Planning and Preparation
Involving children in meal planning and preparation is an important aspect of making the switch to a plant-based diet. Here are a few tips for getting children involved:
Take them grocery shopping: Let your children help pick out fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods at the grocery store. This can help make the transition more exciting for them.
Encourage them to try new foods: Encourage your children to try new plant-based foods and recipes, even if they are hesitant at first. With time, they may come to enjoy new foods and flavours.
Let them help with meal preparation: Children can be involved in meal preparation by washing and chopping vegetables, stirring ingredients, and even cooking simple dishes. My teens enjoy cooking dinner for us every once in awhile. It’s great for me because I get a break from making dinner and they get the experience of cooking something new. Win-win!
Make mealtime fun: Encourage your children to try new recipes and make mealtime fun by having a theme or dress-up dinner.
Bottom Line
Transitioning to a plant-based diet as a family can be challenging, but it can also have numerous benefits for health and the environment. By involving children in meal planning and preparation, families can make the transition easier and more enjoyable for everyone. With a little bit of effort and planning, families can make the switch to a plant-based diet a success!
