Healthy Kids · Healthy Familias

Helping your children stay healthy — without giving up the foods you love.

Simple, culturally tailored nutrition tips for Hispanic families to lower the risk of childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes.

The Food Pyramid

Vegetables & Fruitseat the most, at every meal
Whole Grainsarroz integral, corn tortillas, pan integral
Protein & Dairyfrijoles, chicken, eggs, low-fat milk
Sweets & Sugary Drinkseat the least: soda, pan dulce, fried snacks

Eat the rainbow — fruits and veggies are your kid’s superpower!

Why It Matters

Our children are at higher risk — but it can be prevented.

Hispanic children face higher rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes than many other groups. Extra weight in childhood can lead to early insulin resistance and lasting health problems. The good news: small, everyday changes at home make a real difference.

26.2%
of Hispanic children have obesity
Compared to 16.6% of non-Hispanic White children (CDC, 2024)
60 min
of active play kids need each day
Playing, walking, dancing, or sports all count
~5
servings of fruits & veggies a day
A simple goal for the whole family
Healthy Swaps

Keep your traditions. Make small, smart changes.

You don't have to stop eating the foods your family loves. These easy swaps lower sugar and add nutrition while keeping the flavors your kids enjoy.

Drinks

Soda & sugary jugosWater with fresh fruit
Full-sugar aguas frescasLow-sugar or cucumber agua

Everyday Plates

White arroz, big portionArroz integral, smaller scoop
Fried tortillas / chipsWarm corn tortillas

Portions & Sugar

Adult-size servingsSmaller kid portions
Pan dulce dailyFruit for everyday treats
Family Tips

Healthy habits work best when the whole family joins in.

Children learn by watching their parents. When families set goals together, the changes last much longer.

1

Cook together

Let kids help wash, stir, and serve. They eat more of what they help make.

2

Set one goal a week

Pick one small change as a family — like water at dinner — and celebrate it together.

3

Move every day

A walk after dinner, dancing, or playing in the park — aim for 60 active minutes.

4

Be the example

When kids see parents choosing water and vegetables, they want to do the same.

★ Example stories — names changed, shown to inspire

Real change is possible, one small step at a time.

These are example stories that show what families can achieve with small, steady changes.

S
Sofía
Age 9 · Texas

“I used to drink soda every day. Now my mom makes agua with strawberries, and I actually like it more. I have so much more energy at recess.”

✓ Swapped daily soda for fruit water — and her last checkup showed healthier blood sugar.
D
Diego
Age 11 · California

“We still eat arroz and frijoles, just smaller plates now. After dinner we all walk together. I feel stronger when I play fútbol.”

✓ Smaller portions + nightly family walks helped him reach a healthier weight over the year.
Knowledge Check

Test Your Knowledge

A few real-world questions about keeping kids healthy. Some are tricky — tap an answer to learn why.

Find Help

Where to get more support

These trusted resources can help your family take the next step. Always talk with your child's doctor about their personal health.

Please note: This website is for general education only and is not medical advice. The family stories shown are examples for encouragement, not real patient records. Always talk with a healthcare provider about your child's specific health needs.
Questions

Have a question? Ask us.

Send us your question about healthy eating, portions, or keeping your child healthy — we're happy to help.

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