The BE Well Method

The BE Well Method is what we're using in our family to make sure we all get the proper amount and kinds of nutrition. It's a really easy system to follow, and the kids love picking something from each category. Basically, you should pick 1 thing from the "B" group and 1 thing from the "E" group for each meal AND snack. Of course, you can do more, but the idea is that they should be even amounts. For example, you should not eat way more protein than carbs or more carbs than protein. Also, 2-3 times a day, you should pick a vegetable from the vegetable list to add in. This is the hard part for us. I must say, veggies are not a hot item around here. I'm the only one who really loves them!

As a side note, notice where corn and potatoes are. NOT in the veggie group. They're actually considered a carb. So don't do what Jason does and count corn and potatoes as part of the daily veggie allowance. That's cheating. :)

The kids have been completely excited about the whole program. We've made a commitment as a family to try new things. The fact that we're all in it together is a really big deal! Our rule is that you must take 2 bites of everything on your plate. That way, at least they do taste the new stuff, and I don't get all upset that no one is eating what I made!

The other thing I was doing wrong was making their snacks too small. These are actually a "mini meal" (for adults, too). Alot of times, I would give them a banana or some graham crackers or something like that. Those were healthy choices, but they didn't contain nutrients from both groups. Since I've changed this, I've noticed a really positive difference. The "I'm hungry" whining has stopped. You know - the kind that kicks in about 30 minutes after they just ate.

Ok, here are the "groups". We have a handy little chart with columns which works really well. Then you can just pick from each column for meals and snacks!

The "B" Group: Building Foods
- lean meats including: chicken, turkey, pork, beef, fish, and shellfish
- eggs
- nuts and nut butters
-beans
-dairy (cheese, milk, and yogurt)
-soy milk and protein products (**note from me: Make sure you really read the labels on this stuff. Some of it is highly processed)

The "E" Group: Energy Foods
-grains including: cereals, breads, pasta, rice, tortillas, and crackers
-starchy vegetables limited to potatoes, sweet potatoes, corn, peas, and lentils
-fruits and fruit juices: juice limited to 4-6 oz. per day. And only drink juice WITH food. Not in between

Non-Starchy Vegetables
-tomatoes, lettuce, spinach, zucchini, green beans, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, asparagus, onions, peppers, cucumbers