Having a family comes with many responsibilities, including promoting and maintaining the health of your children. Even though this may feel like a daunting task, it is imperative that parents and caregivers prioritize the importance of a healthy lifestyle for the family. By making smart choices, your children will be more inclined to take better care of themselves as they grow up.
Vitamins and Supplements
Consult with your family doctor on the best ways to ensure that your children are consuming the right amount of nutrients and vitamins needed per day. Review your meal plans and vitamin intake, allowing your doctor to accurately assess your family’s lifestyle in order to provide suggestions for improvement.
Limit Sugar Intake
While most children love sweets, it is essential to monitor their sugar intake. For example, sugary drinks in addition to an excessive intake of junk food and candy will only lead to a poor diet if consumed frequently. Instead, limit their consumption of sugar and allow them to indulge occasionally as a treat.
Drink More Water
It is true that people often confuse hunger with thirst. Instead of having a refrigerator full of juice and soda, teach your children the importance of staying hydrated. Lead by example by drinking a lot of water, at least eight glasses per day.
Exercise
Ensure that you incorporate physical activity into your family’s daily regimen. No matter the activity, it should get your family moving, such as walking, running, jumping jacks, practicing yoga, etc. For optimal health, it is recommended to do at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day.
Take Your Time at Dinner
Whether you are a working parent or a stay-at-home one, it is advised to have meals with your children at the dinner table or at a common space in the home. Research shows that when a family sits together for dinner instead of eating in front of the television or their laptop, healthier habits are practiced. For example, family members tend to take their time while eating their food, allowing it to digest properly.
Replace Bad Practices with Good Ones
Instead of making your children “clean off” their plate, ensure that they are eating enough vegetables every day. Limit the amount of fried foods that your family consumes, and switch your cooking style to include more grilling, baking, and broiling.