A healthy family is one that agrees to share the values of a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise and communication---and does so on a regular basis. Following the best diet and getting more exercise fosters optimal growth in children and top quality of life for seniors. By staying in good physical and mental condition, the members of a healthy family live for today and for tomorrow.
Nutrition
Complete nutrition with the least fat and cholesterol represents the best diet for any age. Children learn to value and pursue nutritious foods by seeing parents and grandparents eating them. The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests that a healthy family eat together as often as possible, for pleasure and to pass along good nutritional habits. Beside being good role models in their food choices, parents owe it to children to stay well themselves and prevent chronic disease that might shorten their lives. Getting essential vitamins, minerals and fatty acids daily while controlling weight is a good way to reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Diet
To do this, the AHA recommends the low-fat DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) eating plan. Adjustable calorie levels make it appropriate for any age or activity level. Getting kids involved in reading food labels, planning the best diet and cooking will help them develop lifelong healthy habits.
Exercise
Exercise is another valuable key to health for children, adults and seniors. Getting more exercise improves physical and mental health, and keeps weight in check. In children, exercise helps to stimulate normal bone, muscle and nerve growth. In adults of any age, it maintains cellular health for strength and endurance.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend combining the best diet for a healthy weight with 60 to 90 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days. Parents can encourage children to get more exercise daily by setting goals and keeping a chart. Regular family activities outdoors, bicycling or playing sports, or indoors, dancing or bowling, will keep the exercise ball rolling.
Communication
Communicating with family and friends promotes a good mental state, which in turn supports physical health. The best way to improve family relations is to focus on them with daily discussion. One natural venue is the dining table. In casual discussion, a healthy family can evaluate the nutritional value of a meal, and recap work, school and play activities.
Stress Reduction
Airing grievances may wait until after dinner, but is essential to reducing stress among family members. Another way to incorporate communication into a health lifestyle is talk and walk. Getting more exercise and expressing personal feelings is an ideal way to cut stress and achieve a healthy mental outlook.
