Ep 56: WLS Eating Behaviours to Role Model for Kids
This post is a companion to Episode 56 of the Bariatric Nutrition Coach Podcast. Listen to the full episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
For many of my clients, being present and active for their children is one of the deepest reasons they chose to have bariatric surgery. This episode is about a beautiful overlap: the eating and lifestyle habits that serve you after surgery are also wonderful habits to model for the children in your life.
1. Eat Without Distraction
Sitting at the table, away from screens, and being present while eating is one of the most powerful habits we can build — and model. When you talk through the experience of eating mindfully with your children, you're also reminding yourself. It's one of the habits that's hardest to establish but most impactful for the whole family.
2. Small Bites, Chew Well, Eat Slowly
Simple to say, hard to do. But when your children see you eating slowly and deliberately, and you can explain why ("chewing well helps my tummy feel better"), you're passing on a habit that will serve them for life.
3. Listen to Hunger and Fullness Cues
Talking to your children about what "satisfied" feels like — versus "full" or "overfull" — helps them build their own body awareness. This is the foundation of a healthy relationship with food: eating when hungry, stopping when satisfied.
4. Drink Mostly Water or Low-Energy Fluids
Helping children move away from sugary drinks and towards water or flavoured water is one of the most impactful things a family can do for long-term health. Experimenting together with infused water (mint and strawberry, lemon and cucumber) makes it fun.
5. Embrace Activity
Moving your body in ways that are joyful and family-based — walks, bike rides, bowling, park runs — is far more sustainable than gym-based exercise, especially with children around. As you lose weight and your body feels better, this gets easier and more enjoyable for everyone.
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