Parenting is filled with a long list of shoulds. I should spend more time reading with my kids, limit their screen time, practice math facts regularly, clean the bathrooms more often, and even take better care of my eyebrows. The top of that list? Eating healthier. My pantry should be stocked with granola instead of chips, my fridge should hold more apples and less cheese, and our dinners should feature quinoa rather than pizza.
But here’s the thing: I’m done with the shoulds and the quinoa too.
Last night’s dinner — like many weeknights — was a mix of leftovers and random pantry items. My partner and kids enjoyed cheeseburgers while I opted for a black bean burger. We munched on baby carrots, sliced up a nearly overripe avocado, and I indulged in half a bag of barbecue kettle chips.
I know this meal broke almost every rule on the “should” list. I can imagine the judgmental looks from those who pride themselves on their virtuous eating habits. But honestly? I don’t care.
Sure, most of what we eat is somewhat healthy, and we keep active. My partner and I exercise regularly, and our kids love swimming, playing sports, and biking around the neighborhood. Overall, we’re healthy. But we also have a soft spot for junk food.
No matter how many people rave about coconut water being the fountain of youth or claim kale grants superpowers, the truth is junk food brings me joy. I can’t relate to someone whose idea of a treat is a prune brownie or who doesn’t occasionally binge on Oreos. A few years ago, I visited a friend’s home and spotted a bowl of Halloween candy on her kitchen counter. Not just any candy, but the good stuff: Nestlé Crunch bars, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Kit Kats, and Butterfingers. I was astounded. How could someone resist that temptation for a month? She must have been one of those women who leaves the hospital in her pre-pregnancy jeans.
But I’m not one of those women.
I genuinely try to eat healthily — I really do. I ensure my kids’ plates have something from the produce section (whether they actually eat it is another story). As a vegetarian, I do incorporate a fair amount of vegetables into my diet, albeit alongside a lot of cereal and potato chips.
These days, my meals can best be described as simple carbs and a dash of hope. Occasionally, my partner and I discuss improving our eating habits. He worries our kids’ dietary choices are slipping into unhealthy territory, and I panic—not because I fear their complaints, but because I’m more concerned about my own whining.
Yes, we all understand the importance of moderation. There are nights I plan healthy meals, and other times we hit the drive-thru or I sneak cookie dough in the bathroom. Parenting is tough, and I’m exhausted.
Junk food may not be a superfood, but it possesses undeniable superpowers. A spoonful of cookie dough feels like a comforting hug and pep talk wrapped in sweetness. A fluffernutter sandwich evokes childhood innocence. French fries dipped in ice cream taste like a rebellious treat. And on particularly challenging days, a bowl of Doritos can feel like a well-deserved escape.
Honestly, a world devoid of junk food, chocolate, and candy is a world I’m not keen on inhabiting. After battling an eating disorder that drained the joy from food for years, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of enjoying every bite, even if it includes some junk.
I want my kids to learn healthy eating habits, of course, and I strive to model a balanced lifestyle. However, I also want them to relish the experience of chocolate melting on their tongues and orange-stained fingers from Cheetos. At the end of the day, some battles aren’t worth fighting. When I’m running low on patience, a strict diet is something I’m willing to let slide. I refuse to hide in the bathroom just to enjoy a Chewy Chips Ahoy! cookie. I’d much rather share those moments with my kids, creating memories while indulging together.
Sure, my family could benefit from healthier eating practices. We’re trying, and that’s what counts. Life is short, and parenting is a challenge; you better believe I’ll hand out Pop-Tarts and Eggo waffles when we’re racing out the door in the morning to maintain everyone’s sanity.
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In summary, while we may strive for healthy eating, it’s equally important to embrace the joy that comes with indulging in comfort foods. Life is all about balance, and as we navigate the parenting journey, sometimes you just have to pass on the kale and enjoy the cake instead.
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