CHRISTUS Children’s emphasizes importance of healthy eating habits for kids

CHRISTUS Children’s is embracing National Nutrition Month this March by encouraging families to discover simple, meaningful ways to help kids build healthy eating habits that last.

Clinicians and dietitians at CHRISTUS Children’s are using the month to spotlight the critical role nutrition plays in a child’s growth, development and long-term well-being. Establishing healthy eating patterns early can support physical health, emotional resilience and academic success.

“Healthy eating patterns established in childhood can influence a child’s physical, emotional and cognitive development for years to come,” said Heather Borowiec, medical director of the culinary medicine program at CHRISTUS Children’s. “When families learn how to make nutritious choices early, it sets the foundation for healthier futures.”

As part of its commitment to family-centered care, CHRISTUS Children’s offers personal, hands-on nutrition education through its culinary medicine program. The program provides interactive classes where patients and parents learn practical cooking skills, explore new ingredients and prepare simple, affordable recipes together. The program is designed to empower families with confidence and knowledge to make healthier meals at home.

“Nutrition doesn’t have to be complicated,” Borowiec said. “Small, consistent changes like adding more fruits and vegetables, involving kids in meal prep or choosing water over sugary drinks can make a meaningful difference.”

In addition, the program includes a specialized gestational diabetes course for expectant mothers. The class focuses on understanding how nutrition affects pregnancy and teaches participants how to prepare balanced meals supporting both maternal health and fetal development.

“With this course, you actually get to cook some recipes,” said Rylee Hudock, a maternal fetal medicine patient at CHRISTUS Children’s. “It was really helpful to go to the class, learn recipes and cook. They provide you with everything you need and make it accessible for those in the class.”