Family Meals Made Easy

This weekend has been a great opportunity for me to spend time with the kids. Mom at work and the kids off school and great summer weather to be enjoyed. Well heres the deal, long school holidays, many great things to do outdoors all adds up to hard work and a costly exercise. Remember it is your time to relax and recover from the stresses of work.

So today I have spent time at home cooking with the kids. First up get the cook books out and let them search. They will do this for hours. Let them get their noses in the spice and herb cupboard and smell those different ingredients. Send them off to find out where they come from on the internet.

Once you have a shopping list take the kids to the supermarket, you will be amazed how much they enjoy it when they are in control of the cooking.

Stop and have a posh coffee whilst the kids explore the books in the book store. Take your time and relax you deserve it.

When home get the kids cooking. Let them do it, only help when you have to and let them take responsibility. Set the dinner table, get the kids to make name cards and menus for the table setting. Even let them get dressed up for dinner. When your spouse arrives home to happy children, a home cooked meal and a smile from you you will have had a great day all round.

By the way we made Fussili with Sausage, Peppers and Olives - my daughters choice.

With thousands of new confirmed cases of swine flu confirmed across the World everyday, many of them young children and teenagers, it can be a worrying time for all mothers, fathers and carers. But can the food we eat help, prepare and protect ourselves from symptoms of swine flu and ease the fears of parents?

The Health Protection Agency, states: “A person who is malnourished is likely to be more susceptible to infections and for most people, a healthy and nutritionally balanced diet will be an important factor in helping to maintain a healthy immune system.”

Making your immune system stronger help protects your body and fights off disease. Antioxidants found in foods make a strong contribution to this fight and it is important that you develop your diet to prevent illness rather than waiting until you become sick. Many believe that vitamin C is the key to preventing colds and flu, however there is very little to support that this has a major effect. We do know however that eating a lot of fruit and vegetables can really strengthen your immune system. In addition to vitamin C these foods also include Vitamin A and E and it is this combination that gives the immune system the strength to fight off illness.

Ensure you eat a healthy balanced diet including lean meats, fish, chicken, vegetables, grain and nuts. It is these foods that will help you with all the nutrients you need to improve your general health.

To further reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus you should ensure you cover your mouth and nose when sneezing and use a tissue which can be thrown away afterwards. Immediately throw away your tissue and clean your hands with soap and water. Also wash clean any hard surfaces regularly, including worktops, door handles, keyboards and remote controls.