Tips to fight child obesity
When it comes to childhood obesity, the problem starts at home, which is why it’s so important to set a good example for your children. Children learn by example and if you teach them that being healthy is a priority, they will follow in your steps. Here are some small steps you can begin taking as a family:
- Drink more water: Doing something as simple as drinking water, helps keep you feel fuller, which makes you eat less. Limiting the amount of soda and juice, which contains a lot of sugar and calories can help keep kids from gaining weight.
- Have fun exercising: Exercise doesn’t have to be boring or a punishment. Make sure your kids are getting at least 1 hour of exercise a day, and this could be anything like playing basketball, running, walking or any other activity that they enjoy.
- Shut off the TV: There’s a correlation between watching too much TV and sitting down for a long period of time without getting any exercise. Limiting the amount of time kids and parents watch TV can help.
- Eat meals together: When you make more food at home and eat out less, this cuts down on calories and eating as a family you can incorporate more fruits and vegetables. There are no surprises or hidden ingredients, which can be a healthier option.
- Set a good example: If your child sees that you don’t exercise or are eating junk food, then he will want to do the same. You are the adult, so set a good example by eating right, limiting junk food and exercising.
NEXT: Is Obesity and Diabetes Passed On to the Next Generation?
