No Diet Liquid Protein Guidelines For a Healthy Family.
Ah... we've just finished summer vacation back to our old routines. The family fun's over - or is it? Family health and wellness aught to be a year round priority. Junior's eating needs to be healthy at school as well as at camp.
Take your vitamins
Remember to take your supplements. It helps if you are able to camouflage your kids daily vitamins usually in a liquid form - either in a smoothie or over cereal. This also depends on the ages of the children in the family - however usually younger children prefer the liquid form and many manufactures make them much more yummy for them so it doesn't taste like "medicine". Your teenager is less likely to be the one overly interested in routine however getting their daily vitamins in is essential especially with active (hopefully most are) and athletic kids. They need extra nutrients to help them with their daily demands. A healthy supplement regime would include - a multiple vitamin, a high quality fish oil, an antioxidant and probiotic for healthy digestion.
Preparing and Eating Meals together. Often making meals together can provide a special bonding experience for families. It may not happen every day - but making this a priority at least 2 or 3/x per week would be a good plan. Eating meals together also gives family members an opportunity to connect and share their day's activities and plans. Try to avoid eating in front of the TV - it is not only distracting and but also disconnecting. It is actually a less healthy way of consuming your meals as your brain is busy with other things and not really connecting with your stomach - so after you have finished your meals - your brain asks - did I just eat? This is when you start overeating or craving other extra foods like desserts.
Supportive environment.
This could mean several different things to people. But support is support - whether you need support in your dream of becoming a rocket scientist, or the courage to ask someone on a date, or starting a healthy weight loss program buying a new home - all these situations creates additional stress for the family member. Being there to support or just listen to and give feedback can be invaluable to the person who needs it. Having grown up with 8 brothers and sisters support for me meant feeling loved and feeling I belonged. This is core for everyone no matter how large or small your family unit is. It is a good idea to create this sense of support - where everyone feels at home, feels safe and there exists a high level of trust for everyone to be able to share ideas, dreams and fears - creating a safe haven to rest, test and thrive.
Weight Loss
I have put many women through my weight loss program and surprisingly the whole family benefits. Women report that their husbands lose weight and feel much better simply by eating healthier. Better portions sizes and food combinations support their energy throughout the day so they feel happier, healthier and calmer. Even if a family member does need to lose weight - healthier meal choices is a good thing for everyone.
Not being overscheduled - "down time"
In our society we have every minute scheduled. Kids are swamped with homework, this class, that group, this game, etc. It can not only be overwhelming for the child but also for the parents. Parents as well are overloaded with a flurry of activities. Learn to appreciate those quiet days where you just hang around the house doing less than exciting things but just rejuvenating and slowing down.
Regular Checkups
Important to be consistent with all regular check ups: Dental, Medical and even Nutritional Evaluations to see if you are getting everything you need in your normal diet or supplement program.
Healthy Food Guidelines
3 Meals per day and 2 snacks are the general rule. Always have quality proteins, less starchy carbohydrates and healthy fats in every meal. Try to keep junk food out of your home if at all possible - it's unhealthy for everyone. Even for your lean and lanky teen. Teaching your children well by setting an example is paramount. Keep healthy snacks available celery sticks with almond butter on them, an apple and some cheese or rolled up slices of turkey with carrots. Keep it simple and nutritious. What's healthy for one is usually healthy for all unless a family has a specific food allergy or other health concerns. Also, the "picky" eater can pose a problem - find out why they do not want to eat certain foods and find out what would be an adequate replacement. You may want to consult with a qualified nutritionist to help with this. It has been shown that sodas are often the leading cause of diabetes and obesity in our culture - so try to keep them out of your home as well.
Exercising together
Exercise is essential for overall health. A family who likes to exercises together will also get the additional benefit of bonding. It can be bike riding on the weekends or even just a walk on the beach any evening or afternoon. Whether it's high energy or the quietness of a slower pace yoga class - it's always a good idea to carve out some time for fitness.
Family Health History
Important to know your family history in case anyone in the family falls ill. You will also know what your predisposition might be. Is there diabetes, heart disease, thyroid issues in your family family? If so, what are the preventative steps you can take today to assure your health will be excellent for many years to come.
Elderly Caretaking
Including grandparents in activities and family gatherings is crucial to the health of all.
Sometimes the elder family lives in the family home which can at times be comforting but also can bring its own set of challenges. Make sure grandma's medicines are kept filled and regular check ups are initiated. Sometimes vision problems may occur causing some disability for the elder member. Their digestion system is usually not what it used to be some make sure you have extras soft and easily digestible foods on hand and you may want to also include a digestive enzyme as well. Wheelchairs or walkers also become a concern and often a necessity so proper amenities must be considered. Of course, many so called elderly are so active, fit and engaged in life some can run circles around their younger counterparts.
