Are you setting a good example for your kids? Do you drink enough water everyday, opt for healthy fruits and vegetables, and get good exercise most days of the week? If you aren’t setting a good example, then who is? Kids are overexposed to fast foods, high sugar cereals, soda, and energy drinks. These unhealthy lifestyle factors are setting them up for failure, and research has something to say.
Cardiovascular disease makers are showing up in children as young as three years old. This means that by the time they grow into adult-hood, they are at a huge risk for obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Research is also showing that these diseases are showing up in the younger years instead of in the 40’s and 50’s. I am meeting high school seniors and college grads on some heavy medication to keep their numbers under control.
Chubby toddlers look cute but parents are putting them at risk for unhealthy behaviors as they grow-up. I think it’s important for parents to look at their own lifestyle habits and make the switch as a familyzChildren learn to have a sweet tooth, emotional eat, and rely on soda for energy from those around them.
Stop handing kids chocolate milk, high sugar juice, French fries, cookies, and candy. Don’t reward them with treats as you reinforce the behavior that good deeds deserve high fat or high sugar foods. Console toddlers with love and hugs, not cookies and ice cream.
When it comes to exercise, toddlers need it too. Let them run around, play, and be the kids they need to be!
It’s time to get motivated and fight the obesity epidemic that is sweeping the nation. Seek help, talk to your healthcare provider, make an appointment with a nutritionist, and turn off the TV. Don’t let your toddler be a statistic.