Here's Why Children's Health Really Is So Important
By Genevieve Cunningham
Children are our future. You've heard this statement before, and you've probably rolled your eyes at the obviousness of it. But as any parent knows, kids are not only our future -- they're our present. Kids are important right now, just the way they are. They bring so much joy and happiness into our lives. We want the best for them! But what does this mean? Endless presents and treats? Discipline and structure? If you're unsure, why not start with something obvious -- like health! If you have kids and truly want what's best for their future, take a look at why aiming for good children's health is so important to start right now.
It Carries Into Adulthood
The things that we do in childhood stay with us into adulthood. Of course, this doesn't include everything. You're allowed to make silly decisions and mess up and do stupid things and leave all of those things behind as you grow. But habits tend to be more long lasting. If you make a habit of staying up all night, it'll be hard to break. And other healthy (or unhealthy!) habits are the same. Getting your children on a routine of healthy habits is one of the best things you can do for their future. Teaching them to eat healthy food increases the odds that they'll eat healthy as adults. Teaching them to stay active and moving increases the odds that they'll remain active throughout the years. We want our kids to be happy and healthy now, but we're also thinking about their future. And teaching your kids to be healthy as kids helps set them up for better health in the future as well.
Prevention is Always Best
Prevention is the best medicine. It always has been and always will be. There's no getting around it. Most health problems don't pop up out of the blue. While this sometimes happens, most health issues happen because of personal neglect or lack of care. We don't watch our weight or see the doctor regularly or maintain a flexible body. If you teach your children to care for their health right now, you may be helping them start a path of prevention. The self-care habits will stick. They may be able to avoid excessive weight gain or heart disease or other serious conditions because they'll know how to care for themselves. And as parents, what else could we possibly want? If you like the idea of setting your children up for better health through prevention, start now and don't give up.
Kids aren't easy. They bring their own ideas and attitudes into our lives. They have strong opinions and brains that are still developing. But as parents, we have to help them make good decisions for themselves and for their future. Start teaching your children healthy habits right now, and you won't regret the outcome as they grow into their future.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in West Covina, Calif.