Question/Comment from kimber-leigh:

I take pride in feeding my kids the best possible food, but don’t completely exclude all of the junk but for some reason it’s hard for my family to understand. We usually get some comment on how mean it is or how we should enjoy it now “because it will never last” which is so annoying! (It’s the healthy food options that they tend to make comments about.)  We make our own baby food (what a great savings and huge variety) and make sure our oldest (he’s two) eats well, and he loves fruits and veggies! Anytime we have family gatherings we always try to bring something healthy so that we know we’ll have a good option, and then the family will go out of their way to give them junk.  And anytime we praise our kids for eating well it’s always the same comment, “it won’t last” and that’s the worst.  I just wish they could be supportive.The kids are young enough now not to understand what the family is saying, but got any tips on how to handle those comments later when the kids are old enough to understand?

My Kids Really Eat This:

Yes, this is a time that they’d like it but it is not good for them, especially too much.  If you look at the average American we are too big and that’s bad —this isn’t about aesthetics, but health.  I’ve heard that they predict our kids’ generation will have a shorter life span because of the way they are being fed.  I want my children to have a long, healthy life without complications from diabetes, heart issues, cancer, bone problems and social issues.

Ask them to keep their unsolicited comments to a time when the kids aren’t within earshot.  And then if you agree on what they can offer and how much before you get there you’ll both probably be happier.  (Like just one treat per visit.)
Also see if there’s compromise…like if they can serve sparkling apple juice instead of soda or all natural ice cream for desserts. 

Good luck!  Let me know if it works!

(conversation slightly edited)

I completely understand.  I have some relatives who I feel are constantly pushing candies, soda and other junk foods when we go over.  I bring some healthy things but also let them have one or two things that are maybe not the worst things they offer.  An occasional treat isn’t going to do much either, I believe.
But you need to remind them (when the kids aren’t around or when they are asleep) that you are the parent, not them, and ask them, “Please let me raise my
children in the way I want— eating healthful foods.  I would prefer it if you could please limit the amount of junk you offer them.”