From an early age, children imitate their parents.
From an early age, children imitate their parents. They say what we say, do what we do and eat what we eat – that’s why it’s so important for us to model healthy habits.
At BalanceDiet of Billings, a healthy lifestyle and weight loss facility, Toni Kramer and her team often work with parents to help improve both their own health and the health of their families.
Here are her five tips to get the whole family on a healthier path:
1. Make dinner prep a family activity
While it may make the tasks take a little longer, grocery shopping and cooking dinner are the perfect opportunities to engage kids in a conversation about food.
At the store, talk about why you’re picking different foods and how they benefit our health. Encourage your kids to add color to their meals by picking out a variety of vegetables and fruit.
You can also have kiddos help make meals, even if it’s just washing veggies or whisking eggs – if they’re involved, they’re more likely to eat and enjoy it.
2. Lead by example
One of the best ways to get children to make healthier decisions: make the changes in your life.
Make simple swaps at dinner, like baking or grilling chicken instead of frying it, preparing spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles rather than pasta or replaced mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower.
Think of ways to include children in physical activities, like asking them to join you for a walk, playing at the park or riding bikes. Also let them know when you are going to the gym and talk about the benefits you experience from healthier decisions.
3. Don’t use food as a reward
Often times, food gets framed as a reward. If a child does particularly well at school or completes their chores, they are rewarded with junk food.
“When you are showing children the value of nutrition, you’re helping them think of food as fuel rather than a reward,” says Kramer. “Comforting your child with food can lead to habits that don’t contribute to a healthy lifestyle.” Try to use non-food rewards like a movie night or extra playtime instead.
4. Change how you talk about diet and exercise
Often, we only talk about healthy habits from the perspective of losing weight. This can create a problematic mindset that frames healthy habits as only necessary if you’re overweight. It can also lead to negative views about their appearance and self-esteem.
Instead, shift the focus towards food as fuel and exercise as a necessary part of everyone’s life, just like sleeping, bathing or brushing their teeth.
5. Create of a community of health living
A great support system is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. So encourage your friends and extended family to get in on the act, choosing lighter options or sharing entrées at restaurants and joining exercise routines.
Working with a professional healthy lifestyle coach is another smart way to show your family you’re taking your health seriously. At BalanceDiet, for example, members meet with coaches on a weekly or bi-weekly basis to discuss progress, ask questions and receive meal plans, grocery lists and nutritional tips. These consultations are also great opportunities to discuss any challenges the client may be facing while making behavioral changes.
Since 2007, Toni Kramer and her team at BalanceDiet of Billings have been successfully helping people get on the path to a healthy lifestyle, lose weight and keep it off!
Both men and women can enroll in weight loss services, which include personalized meal plans, grocery lists, weekly consultations, accountability and motivational support. BalanceDiet also has a fitness facility exclusively for women, including cardio, toning equipment, a variety of group fitness classes like yoga, NIA and jazzercise. Trainers are included and BD offers massage and a sauna!
To start your journey to a healthier life, visit BalanceDietBillings.com or call 406-838-5062.
from myhealtyze http://www.myhealtyze.tk/5-smart-ways-to-help-your-family-live-a-healthier-life-ktvq-billings-news/
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