Imagine a TV show that starts off with a trim, fit family. Now, as the TV show producer, your objective is to make the family fat.
You might start by stocking their fridge with high fat foods, and taking them to lots of restaurants to eat big portions. You would fill their time with activities like playing video games, watching TV and then keep them up late. Basically, you would influence the environment this family lives in so they would develop habits that lead to weight gain and obesity.
The environment of a household influences the habits of those living in the household. As a parent, the food you purchase and cook, the restaurants and menu choices you make for yourself, are the choices your kids will make for themselves. There is an epidemic of overweight kids and obesity starts in the home.
As a parent, you can save your children from the health risks associated with being overweight by:
• Getting more physical activity as a family. Go for walks and bike rides in your neighborhood and show your kids that exercise is important.
• Keep fresh fruit and vegetables in the house for snacking. Have healthy snacks easily available, like baby carrots and peeled oranges and enjoy them for yourself too.
• Avoid buying sugary drinks, like soda and flavored juices. These drinks can put on the pounds. • Have crunchy snacks like pretzels, cereal or baked chips with salsa.
• Limit screen time for yourself and your kids. Walk the dog or encourage active games with friends.
• Get the kids involved in cooking meals. Teach them how to make choices for dinner and how to prepare the meals.
Parents are role models for their kids. Set an example by building a foundation of healthy habits and it will become a natural way of life for your kids.