 Rule
5: Exercise and eating properly make for a STRONG
body!
By exercising and eating well, not only will you have a STRONG body, your risk for sickness and disease will decrease. Have fun while you exercise by riding bikes, playing tag, or even building a snowman during the winter months! If your school has sports, try joining the basketball or volleyball team to meet new people and get your dose of physical activity.
Check out these benefits of exercise:
- strong muscles and bones;
- weight control;
- decreased risk of developing type 2 diabetes;
- better sleep;
- a better outlook on life.
Source: www.kidshealth.org
Along with exercise, it’s also important to eat properly. Try eating healthy foods and drink water as often as you can. After school, grab a fun snack such as ants on a log (celery, peanut butter and raisins) or make fruit kabobs. Keep your body STRONG by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. Even try making fruit smoothies such as strawberry and banana or blueberry with your parents or friends
The American Academy of Family Physicians provides these tips for families and children to eat healthier:
- Start the day with breakfast;
- Let kids help plan one meal each week;
- Eat together as often as possible;
- Parents, set a good example by serving a variety of foods;
- Eat slowly. It is easier to tell if you are hungry or full when you eat slowly;
- Eat more vegetables and fresh fruits. Aim for a total of 5 1/2 cups of fruits, juice and vegetables every day;
- Eat more whole grains, such as oats and whole wheat. Try to eat at least three ounces of whole grain every day;
- Drink plenty of fluids every day. Select water, low-fat or fat-free milk, and low calorie or diet beverages.
Source: American Academy of Family Physicians. http://familydoctor.org
Links for more Information
Proper food portion sizes to feed your children. Click here.
Tips for families and children to eat better. Click here.
What your food labels really mean. Click here.
The importance of staying hydrated. Click here.
The power of natural foods. Click here.
The benefits of exercise for children. Click here.
Encourage healthy exercise habits early for children. Click here.
Exercise in youth and bone health. Click here.
Twelve tips to teens safe and healthy. Click here.
Make sure your teen gets enough calcium. Click here.
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