In this episode, Miles Hassell MD, an internal medicine physician from Portland, Oregon, dives deep into one of the most important responsibilities of parenthood—feeding your kids well. He tackles the real-life challenges families face in a world dominated by ultra-processed foods, marketing traps, and busy schedules. Learn how simple, home-cooked meals can drastically improve your child's mental and physical health, prevent chronic diseases, and build lifelong habits. From breakfast hacks to family cooking tips, this episode is a practical and inspiring guide for every parent.

Key Takeaways:

• Feeding kids well is a moral imperative, not just a preference—it's as crucial as seatbelts and helmets.
• Ultra-processed foods are linked to obesity, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, poor academic performance, and chronic disease.
• Kids should eat the same real food as adults—there's no need for special "kid food."
• Cooking at home is key: it saves money, teaches life skills, and builds family bonds.
• Start early and be strategic: gradual changes, fun family cooking, and healthy treats can transform habits.
• Avoid food "traps" like sugary drinks, protein bars, commercial bread, and snacks marketed as healthy.
• Practical meal ideas include homemade overnight whole intact grain cereals, veggie-packed frittatas, home-baked bread, and simple snacks like fruit and cheese.
• Build a home culture of movement, socializing, reading, and resilience alongside nutrition.
  Let's raise healthy, capable kids—one homemade meal at a time. Order your copy of Good Food Great Medicine, 4th edition by Miles Hassell MD and Mea Hassell. https://a.co/d/blI93TT References -Ferreira, R., et al. (2024). Early ultra-processed foods consumption and hyperactivity/inattention in adolescence. https://doi.org/10.11606/s1518-8787.2024058005636 -Lane, M., et al. (2022). Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Mental Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies. Nutrients, 14(13), 2568. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14132568 -López-Gil, J, et al. (2025). Investigating the Relationship Between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Academic Performance in the Adolescent Population: The EHDLA Study. Nutrients, 17(3), 524. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17030524 More references can be found at www.GreatMed.org
  Would you like Dr. Hassell to answer your question on the air? Contact us! Phone/text: 503-773-0770 e-mail: [email protected] Write us a letter. We love to hear from you. This podcast is sponsored by our generous listeners. Send questions, comments, and support to: 4804 NW Bethany Blvd., Suite I-2, #273 Portland OR 97229