Head-to-Toe Health Tips for the Whole Family 

Brad Krause at [email protected] wrote for Healthy Lombard that Childhood obesity is a major issue in the United States, with nearly one in five kids aged 2 to 19 considered obese. Unfortunately, excess pounds can contribute to long-term health issues, from diabetes to hypertension. Healthy Lombard is a charitable organization committed to helping parents raise healthy, active kids. This guide provides head-to-toe tips that you can implement in your family to help kids and adults alike improve their wellbeing.

Make exercise a family activity

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things people of all ages can do to maintain a healthy weight. Look for activities you can enjoy as an entire family, like playing tag, hula-hooping, or dancing to music. You can also get some fresh air by exercising outdoors. Go for a hike or a bike ride as a family. As your kids get older, encourage them to pursue athletic activities like team sports on their own.

Establish a strict bedtime routine for kids and adults alike

A solid night’s rest helps kids and adults alike feel their best. Build a bedtime routine for your children that will help them get to sleep at the same time every night. Pre-sleep activities could include helping them brush their teeth, reading a book together, and singing them a lullaby. It’s also significant to get rest as an adult. The Mayo Clinic provides guidance for getting a better night’s sleep, such as minimizing caffeine intake before bed.
 

Cook as a family to enjoy more nutritious meals 

Research reveals that home cooking is healthier than ordering in or going out. Why? When you cook for yourself, you can precisely control the ingredients you use and the portion sizes. Make a habit of preparing meals together as a family, focusing on making nutritious meals. Your diet should consist of plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits, lean proteins like fish, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Minimize the use of salt, sugar, and fat.

Maintain healthy habits even when you’re on holiday

When you go away on a family vacation, it can be tempting to forego healthy habits and simply relax. While it’s fine to kick back for a day or two, you’ll feel better if you uphold your new lifestyle changes. To help, stay in a vacation rental instead of a hotel. You’ll be able to have more space for exercise and will have a kitchen to prepare your own meals. Turnkey Vacation Rentals offer diverse options in various neighborhoods throughout Chicago.

Get proactive about combating stress

A holistic approach to health will also take into account mental wellbeing. As a parent, you have lots to juggle, from your career to your kids. Get proactive about tackling stress head-on. Lifestyle changes like exercising regularly and quitting tobacco products are good first steps. You can also hone techniques designed to minimize stress as triggers arise. Meditation and deep breathing are two examples.

Use positive self talk to be kind to yourself

Positive affirmations can help improve mental health for children and adults. Practice affirmations as a family, getting everybody into this healthy habit. Pathway 2 Success provides tips for teaching kids to utilize positive self-talk. You can create a list of positive statements together that kids can refer to. It’s also helpful to talk about real-world challenges and situations that may arise that can hinder confidence and how to best deal with them.

Instilling good wellness habits in kids while they’re young increases the odds that they will embrace a healthy lifestyle in adulthood. The above guide explains how you can embrace physical and emotional wellness as a family, benefiting young and old alike.

For more content on helping to raise active and healthy kids, visit the other pages on the Healthy Lombard platform.

It offers resources, programs, and events to foster good health. Check it out.

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