In a commentary that appeared in the Nov. 11 edition of the Philadelphia Tribune, Larry Lucas, a vice president for Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, described ways that parents can promote healthy eating over holidays and throughout the new year:
Kids look to adults to set an example, and its more important than ever to be a positive role model. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), childhood obesity has more than doubled in the past 20 years, and the problem continues to grow. Fortunately, there are changes the entire family can make to help children stay healthy and fit.
DO: Add in more time for physical activity. Limit the amount of time your children are allowed to spend in front of the TV and computer and increase the time they spend moving around. This could include playing sports, dancing or going on walks. Also, encourage them to eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy and protein and drink plenty of water. Try making these changes a family affair -- children take cues from the adults around them, so hop on a bike and grab your kids!
DONT: Drink your calories. For example, an average 12 ounce can of soda is around 165 calories. If you drink three in a day, youve added an extra 495 calories to your diet! If your average 8-year-old is on a 1,600 calorie-a-day diet, theyve already consumed nearly 30 percent of their daily allotment in just soda alone. Set the example by avoiding these high-calorie drinks yourself -- no matter how much you crave them.
Labels: advice, parents, examples
Posted By: Aspen/CRC
