With video games, TV, computers, fast food, and the internet, children are facing a health crisis. Children are less healthy than they used to be in times past. Diabetes –- thought to be a mainly adult disease in the past — has been on the rise among children. An obese child usually translates into an obese adult, which can lead to all sorts of health problems, such as high blood pressure and an increased chance of suffering from a heart attack or stroke. With this in mind, here is a TOP 10 list of nutritional tips and healthy eating guidelines for children: - Set a good example and keep your child active. Children learn by example, and if their parent is healthy and active, chances are they are too. Make activity fun for your child, and enroll them in as many sporting activities as you can.
- Make sure your child eats breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and a necessity for a balanced healthy diet. It will give them the fuel they need throughout the day. Make sure you guide them towards making healthy breakfast choices, such as oatmeal and whole grain cereals.
- Keep your child hydrated, especially if it's very hot outside or they're engaged in a sporting activity.
- Make sure your child gets enough protein and carbohydrates in their diet. Foods that are good sources of protein and carbohydrates include fish, poultry, meat, cheese, milk, and beans.
- Provide healthy nutritious snack foods after exercising. Instead of handing them a chocolate bar, hand them fruit instead.
- Provide variety in their diet. If your child is eating the same things day after day, chances are that they're missing out on some nutritional building blocks. Besides that, they will get bored with their diet. Instead, have them help you choose a variety of meals that are healthy for the entire family.
- Work with a dietitian or a nutritionist. They can help a great deal when it comes to healthy meal planning for you and your growing children.
- Try to make home-cooked meals as opposed to eating out. Fast food is generally not a good way to instill good eating habits in your child. Budget burgers aren't healthy. You will save more money eating at home.
- Throw out the soda and limit the juices. Soda is jam-packed with calories and juices are typically full of sugars. Instead, give them water and iced tea.
- Teach your child about proper portion sizes. Most people eat way too much food at each meal, which contributes to weight gain in both adults and children.
Proper nutrition and a healthy diet is important for both children and adults. Together you can make your house a healthier environment, where everyone can reap the benefits. Don't let poor nutrition and lack of activity ruin your child's health. Make a difference that will last a lifetime. YOUR VIDEO FITNESS COACH, ANITA STONE NEXT LIVE TRAINING EVENT: "WEIGHT LOSS TOP 10: The Top 10 Strategies You Must Know for Permanent and Successful Weight Loss" Saturday, July 18th, 2-4 p.m. Register here: http://www.videohealthcoach.com/register.html |
