Healthy Living Begins at Home
By Virginia Laird
Many believe that healthy lifestyles begin at home. According to research, this is true. Parents have a window of opportunity to teach good habits to their children. However, there comes a time when it can be too late to make drastic changes to poor habits. The habits you choose to instill in your children are carried throughout life. One of the best things to teach your children is how to make healthy lifestyle and food choices. A few things to consider teaching to your children include:
- Healthy eating happens at home
- Bedtimes are beneficial
- Exercise is for everyone
Healthy Eating Happens at Home
Although life on the go may be what you are currently experiencing, and eating out seems to be the most convenient, it is not the healthiest choice to make. Healthy eating begins and ends with well-balanced meals. A well-balanced diet is typically characterized by plenty of veggies and lean proteins. While making sure to eat healthily can take time, it is time well spent. Begin teaching your children the importance of eating right and it will build a healthy foundation for their entire life.
Bedtimes are Beneficial
Getting enough sleep is vital in staying healthy. Without sleep, the body is more vulnerable to illness, weight gain, and a host of other health issues. Many simply do not realize how much sleep is required. Sleep experts advise that the average adult should get a minimum of at least six hours of sleep each night. However, children require much more. For this reason, bedtimes can help encourage everyone to get plenty of sleep. A detailed sleep recommendation chart can be found here.
Exercise is for Everyone
There are no age requirements for exercise. Research suggests that exercise can be good for everyone at any age and fitness level. While not every exercise class may be geared for a variety of fitness levels, there are plenty of ways to ensure your children get some exercise routinely. If your children are not active in sports, spending time walking through your neighborhood can provide a great workout for the entire family. Teaching your children to love exercise as young children can help them maintain the habit as adults.
It is never too late to teach your children how to establish and enjoy healthy living. Start today making the changes needed to help them love healthy living and you will have no regrets.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Huntingdon Valley, Pa.