The Community Nutrition and Dietetic Service of HSE West is advising parents to encourage their children to make healthy lifestyle choices every day.
According to Ann Marie Lydon, senior community dietician with the Community Nutrition & Dietetic Service, HSE West, “childhood obesity is strongly associated with risk factors for heart disease and diabetes, underachievement at school, and lower self esteem. We also know that over 60 per cent of children who are overweight before puberty will be overweight in early adulthood.”
It is very important for children to be physically active. Even if your child is not into sport, you can encourage him/ her to play games such as hopscotch, skipping, or ball games.
All children learn by watching what their parents do, so it is very important to be a good role model for your children in terms of the lifestyle choices you make every day.
Encourage your child to have breakfast every morning — set a good example by having breakfast yourself.
Make family mealtime a priority. Family meals promote good eating habits and overall good nutrition.
Children are more likely to get excited about healthy eating when they are part of the process. Children enjoy helping with grocery shopping, selecting what goes in their lunch box, and preparing dinner.
Limit the time your children watch television, play computer games, or surf the internet.
Children need to eat often, especially when they are active. It is important to try to encourage whole foods as snacks — fresh fruits, vegetables, and other simple, wholesome selections.
If you would like any further information on making healthy lifestyle choices for your family contact 091 548335 or email [email protected]
