As a parent, one of your responsibilities is to teach your teenagers healthy eating habits that they can carry with them outside the home. But with so many unhealthy food choices in the outside world, this can be a challenging task.

To help you with this, here are 8 ways that you can teach your teenagers healthy eating habits outside the home:.

1. Lead by Example

One of the most effective ways to teach your teenagers healthy eating habits is by being a role model yourself. If your teenager sees you eating healthy foods and making conscious food choices, they’re more likely to do the same.

2. Teach Them to Read Food Labels

Most food products come with a nutrition label that provides information about the calories, nutrients, and ingredients. Teach your teenagers how to read these labels so that they can make informed food choices outside the home.

3. Encourage Them to Choose Healthy Options at Restaurants

When eating out at a restaurant, encourage your teenager to choose healthier options. Look for items that are grilled, baked, or steamed instead of fried.

Ask for dressings and sauces on the side, and choose water or unsweetened beverages instead of sugary drinks.

4. Pack Healthy Snacks and Lunches

When your teenager is going to school or heading out for the day, pack them healthy snacks and lunches.

This will help ensure that they have access to healthy food options when they’re outside the home, and also saves them money from buying unhealthy snacks from vending machines and convenience stores.

5. Teach Them to Cook

If your teenager is old enough, teach them how to cook healthy meals. This will help them become more independent and self-sufficient, and also educate them on healthy eating habits.

6. Limit Junk Food in the House

Limit the amount of unhealthy food options in your home. Stock up on healthy snacks such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, and avoid buying sugary snacks and junk food. This will help your teenager develop a taste for healthier food options.

7. Encourage Them to Choose Healthy Options at the Grocery Store

When grocery shopping with your teenager, encourage them to choose healthy options. Look for whole grain bread, lean meats, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Avoid purchasing sugary cereals, chips, and other unhealthy snacks.

8. Educate Them on Portion Control

Teach your teenager the importance of portion control. Eating too much of any food, even healthy options, can lead to weight gain. Teach your teenager to listen to their body and stop eating when they feel full.