Habits not Habitus

Small things can really make a big difference when it comes to kids weight, but it takes parents to make them effective. An over-focus on weight is not as healthy as an emphasis on increase in healthy habits. A simple change in habits or behavior can make a huge difference in a kids health. Increasing physical activity or reducing food by just 50 calories per day can be simple and effective. Almost every other activity than watching TV burns calories. This takes a little work. Plan meals ahead of time, eat a healthy breakfast, and plan an exercise every day. Going for a short walk, shooting baskets, playing catch can easily accomplish this goal. Simple changes in eating behaviors can lead to healthier habits like eating together as a family, healthy snacking, removing simple sugars, and not letting kids eat in front of TV. When you go out to eat, everyone could order water. These behaviors can not be expected to come from the child, the family must manifest the lifestyle changes and make them a habit for everyone.