Coach Greg’s Top 3 recommendations to keep your Family Healthy

You see it in the news almost daily, how obesity is on the rise in adults and children.

I always wonder how this can be with the mass production of exercise videos, DVDs, gadgets etc in the market?

There are a number of contributing factors. Work schedules- less time for a home cooked meal. Economy and cheap fast food- times are hard for many people and restaurants.

Many people are figuring out how to feed large families on small budgets and the fast food companies are making it easier. The Media marketing monster- during any TV show you will see multiple commercials that encourage cheap fast food or take this pill to lose weight, we are bombarded with bad messages.

Lack of education – Again the media with the “fat free” and other campaigns lead you to believe some foods are healthy that just are not.

So how can we go back to something basic to keep our families healthy?

Here are some tips that will help create a healthy atmosphere and develop healthy habits in your household.

1 – Physical activity every day – This can be formalized with team sports or just being outside on the bike or playing hide and seek together. The idea is that everyone is active and having FUN.

I know kids go to school and have recess and play with their friends, but this does not always mean physical activity. And if you have been at work all day, then you need to get some fun exercise time in too and what better way than with your family.

If you are all playing or exercising together this helps encourage a healthy atmosphere at home.

2 – Diet Management – The word “diet” to us adults could mean extreme cutting of calories and or fasting. This is not advisable for children.

This could have an impact on growth and create a misperception of what “normal” eating should be.

When packing lunches, consider low sodium deli meat, string cheese, and fruit that your child enjoys rather than the quick lunchable that can pack over 1100gms of sodium and 20gms of fat. It doesn’t take long to make your kids lunch healthy.

Instead focus on a balanced diet which includes fruit and or veggies at each meal, whole grains, and lean meats. Try to eliminate unnecessary fats and high sugar snacks and meal items.

3 – Include your kids – include your kids whenever possible in meal planning. Ask them to contribute a healthy food item to include in lunches, dinners etc.

This may require some additional education by you the parent to ensure you are supporting a positive eating program and creating good eating habits. Again this can have a very healthy effect on the whole family.

As always, consult with your Dr. to ensure your kids are getting the right amount of exercise and following a balanced diet.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions regarding, weight loss, fitness, or general wellness for your entire family. I am here to help you create a happy and healthy lifes