We all want what's best for our children. From the time of their birth, we provide the love, food and shelter that they need. We take them to interesting places, help them with school work and attend their sporting events or performances.
But one of the most important gifts that we can offer is to encourage them to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Introducing them to healthy foods, discouraging intake of sugary snacks, educating them about the dangers of tobacco, illicit drugs and alcohol, and encouraging various forms of exercise will instill habits that, in the long run, will minimize their risk of preventable disease.
Obesity, a global scourge, is best prevented during childhood. Primarily familial, it runs in families because children follow the example of their parents when it comes to diet and exercise. By remaining fit themselves, parents steer their children away from obesity, tobacco use, alcohol abuse and their many complications.
But one of the most important gifts that we can offer is to encourage them to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Introducing them to healthy foods, discouraging intake of sugary snacks, educating them about the dangers of tobacco, illicit drugs and alcohol, and encouraging various forms of exercise will instill habits that, in the long run, will minimize their risk of preventable disease.
Obesity, a global scourge, is best prevented during childhood. Primarily familial, it runs in families because children follow the example of their parents when it comes to diet and exercise. By remaining fit themselves, parents steer their children away from obesity, tobacco use, alcohol abuse and their many complications.
