In this video a 12 year old girl, Briana, is struggling with morbid obesity. She weighs over 300 pounds. She has been told that being this overweight will affect her health. She also feels very self-conscious about her weight and is bullied by her classmates. Briana's parents express concern about her health as well. When her mother is interviewed about what food she serves the family she appears to be very interested in making any necessary changes. A trip to the market to find out what she purchases for family meals reveals that she does not seem to know what would be best to prepare for Briana so she can lose weight. Briana's mother appears to be "stuck" on buying what she thinks are healthy foods which includes canned vegetables and very little fresh fruit and vegetables.
Here is the link to the video, "A 12 Year Old's Struggle with Morbid Obesity" https://www.oprah.com/own-our-america-lisa-ling/generation-xxl-a-12-year-olds-struggle-with-morbid-obesity-video
Describe how Briana's mother should change meal preparations to be healthier. Describe strategies that might engage Briana in the process of preparing the meals.
Please make an initial post by midweek, and respond to at least two other student's posts with substantial details that demonstrate an understanding of the concepts and critical thinking. Remember that your posts must exhibit appropriate writing mechanics including using proper language, cordiality, and proper grammar and punctuation. If you refer to any outside sources or reference materials, be sure to provide proper attribution and/or citation.
Full Answer Section
- Incorporate more fruits into meals and snacks. Briana's mother should prioritize fresh fruits over processed options like sugary cereals, cookies, and candies. Fruits provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting overall well-being.
- Increase variety and color in her vegetable and fruit intake. This ensures Briana receives a diverse range of nutrients and encourages healthy eating habits.
- Choose Whole Grains over Refined Carbs:
- Replace white bread, pasta, and rice with whole-wheat alternatives. Whole grains provide more fiber and complex carbohydrates, promoting sustained energy levels and helping control blood sugar.
- Opt for whole-wheat tortillas, pita bread, and brown rice instead of their refined counterparts. These substitutions will contribute to a more balanced diet and improved nutrient intake.
- Limit sugary cereals and processed snacks, opting for whole-grain crackers and air-popped popcorn instead. This will reduce sugar consumption and promote healthier snacking habits.
- Include Lean Protein Sources:
- Focus on lean protein options like grilled chicken, fish, and beans. These provide essential nutrients for building and repairing tissues and contribute to feeling satisfied after meals.
- Limit processed meats like sausages, hot dogs, and bacon. These are often high in saturated fat and sodium, which can contribute to health problems.
- Consider vegetarian protein sources like tofu, lentils, and quinoa for variety. These offer complete protein profiles and are excellent alternatives to animal protein.
- Encourage Healthy Cooking Methods:
- Limit fried foods and opt for grilling, baking, and roasting instead. These cooking methods reduce fat content and overall calorie intake.
- Minimize added salt and use herbs and spices for flavor. Excessive salt can contribute to high blood pressure, a potential health concern for Briana.
- Consider portion control when preparing meals. Serving smaller portions can help Briana manage her calorie intake and gradually reduce her weight.
- Engage Briana in the Process:
- Involve Briana in meal planning and grocery shopping. This empowers her to make healthy choices and learn about food options.
- Encourage her to learn basic cooking skills. This can be a fun and rewarding activity that promotes healthy eating habits and self-sufficiency.
- Allow Briana to suggest healthy recipes and experiment with new ingredients. This fosters engagement and ownership over her dietary choices.
Additional Strategies:
- Seek professional guidance from a registered dietitian or nutritionist. They can provide personalized meal plans and dietary advice to support Briana's specific needs.
- Make gradual changes to the family diet. This allows everyone to adjust and adapt to the new eating habits.
- Create a positive and supportive environment around food. Avoid focusing solely on Briana's weight and emphasize the importance of healthy eating for overall well-being.
- Celebrate Briana's efforts and progress. Positive reinforcement can motivate her to continue making healthy choices.
By implementing these changes and engaging Briana in the process, her mother can help her achieve a healthier lifestyle and manage her weight effectively. Remember, this is a journey, not a destination. Patience, support, and consistent effort are key to success.
Sample Answer
Briana's Meal Preparation: A Guide for Healthier Choices
Briana's mother, while well-intentioned, needs to make significant changes to her meal preparations to support Briana's health and weight loss journey. Here are some strategies she can implement:
1. Focus on Fresh Produce:
- Replace canned vegetables with fresh ones. Canned vegetables often contain added sodium and preservatives that are detrimental to health. Fresh vegetables offer more nutrients and fiber, promoting satiety and aiding in weight management.