Helping your children establish healthy eating and exercise habits now can help them avoid obesity and medical complications of unhealthy eating later in life.
We all know eating high-calorie, nutrient-poor food can lead to obesity and medical complications, such as Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. However, the scale does not always reflect a child’s increasing risk for medical complications due to unhealthy eating.
“Parents should restrict the consumption of junk food for overweight and lean children alike,” says Lori Wagner, MD, endocrinologist on staff at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. “A balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables can help reduce your child’s risk for future medical complications.”
Limiting beverages for children to milk or water—serving juice only if needed to remedy constipation—and reducing fast-food meals to once a month also can make room for healthier choices in your child’s diet.
Finding Balance
In addition, children who get the recommended hour of exercise daily will further reduce their risk for future medical complications. Regular exercise can positively impact blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels and help build stronger bones while offsetting extra calories consumed.
“Parents should set a good example for their children by eating a wide variety of healthy foods and exercising regularly,” says Katherine Kreusser, MD, pediatrician on staff at the Children’s Clinic. “Begin involving your children in meal planning and preparation from an early age to teach them how to choose healthy foods for life.”