Tip of the day: Make healthy habits a family affair

Children really do learn by example, so if you're not eating healthfully and exercising, it will be that much tougher to get them to improve their habits. They might feel isolated and resentful if they're made to nosh on carrot sticks while Dad munches on cheese puffs.

Try incorporating physical activity into family time, say, by taking a group walk after dinner. Find out which sports and games your children really like and encourage them. Make healthier meals and snacks for the entire family and eat them together whenever possible, since research suggests that doing so also lowers obesity risks. You might not need to give up all your favorite family recipes. Instead, consider substituting some ingredients, say, olive oil instead of butter, ground turkey instead of ground beef, and nonfat sour cream instead of the full-fat version.

Read more on the 6 ways to help your child maintain a healthy weight, take a look at our best tips for putting together healthful meals for less, and for fitness advice for the whole family, see our DIY Guide to Exercise & Dieting.

Comments

[Jeff Hopeck]

What a great article and motivational piece for families! I'm an author/speaker and my message is all about Happier, Healthier Living. I wanted to add to this post for people looking for even more tips that will help them as families:
1. Take your kids to the grocery store and teach them how to shop properly- they need to understand this, as they will be shopping in grocery stores the rest of their lives.
2. SODIUM is the silent killer. Did you know that one can of canned chicken soup (I'm leaving out the name) has almost an ENTIRE day's recommended sodium intake? Spaghetti Oh'S and pasta-n-sauce in the can items have equally as much. Alternative? Whole wheat pasta, low sodium tomato sauce, and oregano and sprinkled low-fat parmesan! Kids love this.... and it's much, much healthier.

Visit www.healthyhabitsblog.com to learn more.

[Govindan]

Its always better to practice rather than being preaching others.

[James Hubbard, M.D., M.P.H.]

With childhood obesity rising, it is more important than ever that families exercise together. I makes for a good role model, and great memories.