Keep healthy snacks around. Say goodbye to high fatty snacks and hello to more fruits and vegetables. Eating fruits and veggies in between meals is not only healthier, but they make you feel fuller faster. And it’s a great way to make sure your body receives all the nutrients it needs. Great energy boosting snacks include almonds, dried fruit, tuna, bananas and cheese.
Boycott fast food. Fast food isn’t healthy, period. If you want to take the family out to dinner, go to a restaurant that offers healthy portions and fresh food – try to stick with grilled meats and freshly cooked vegetables. You will save ten times the calories at a nice restaurant, and have enough room to split a dessert.
Don’t starve yourself. You have to eat in order to provide energy for your body. Your family should eat three meals a day – with two healthy snacks in between meals. Eating less actually works against you since it can slow down your metabolism.
Get moving. It is very important to add physical activity in your family’s schedule in order to lose or maintain your health. Your family should be active for at least 30 minutes three times a week or more. Add in fun activities like swimming, playing basketball or tennis, taking brisk walks – anything that can hold your interest and help you keep moving.
Turn off the television. Kids are spending more and more time watching television and playing video games then they are outside. Have a family rule – one hour of telelvision on weeknights and maybe two or three hours on weekends. Then, challenge them to a game of tennis or take a walk. Not only will you see a difference in your body, but you have special time to stay connected with your family.
Don’t give up if you slip. To err is human – so don’t beat yourself up if you slip from time to time. Keep reminding yourself that your new lifestyle has been put in place in order to enjoy a long life with your family and friends – not to deprive you of food. And heck, if you want that ice cream or other special treat, add one more bout of exercise that will counteract the treat’s calories.