Kids nowadays prefer playing video games, sitting countless hours in front of the pc and toying with their smart phones over playing outside and getting some sun and sweat to get their hearts pumping. This unhealthy behaviour has also translated in their eating habits, preferring fast food, pizza deliveries, microwavable foods and excessive consumption of junk food and other unhealthy foods. It is no wonder why obesity and high blood pressure have become prevalent in teens and even young children, putting them at high risk for heart ailments when they become older.That is why it is essential for kids, even early on, to have an active and healthy lifestyle. Incorporating this in their everyday routine is going to teach them the importance of nutrition and exercise in order for them to develop and continue making heart-healthy decisions later in life. It is the duty of parents and even teachers to steer youngsters and enforce decent health habits.

Habits that are beneficial for children aren’t much different from the ones that need to be practiced by adults. In actuality, a terrific way for kids to acquire healthy routines is through leading by example, meaning parents have to be role models in living a healthy lifestyle. When the entire family gets involved, children will find it easier and enjoyable to create the active and healthy transition.

• Say no to sodas, sweets, fried and fast food. These foods which are high in fat, sugar and cholesterol while lacking the essential fiber would be the surest ways to obesity and high blood pressure resulting in heart disease. Allowing your children to have them as snacks once in a while is okay so long as you do not regularly stock them on your refrigerator. Instead, have some yummy healthier alternatives around.
• Have a balanced diet with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and nuts. A heart-healthy diet is low in cholesterol, sodium, sugar and fat but high in dietary fiber and all the needed minerals and vitamins. Dairy products in low fat are excellent to have as a fantastic source of calcium.
• Restrict video games, tv and non-school-related computer time to just two hours every day. Although children need downtime after college, this sedentary routine does nothing good for their heart health. Instead provide alternatives like registering them in karate classes or encouraging them to try out for the swimming team.
• Makes sure your children get to do some physical activity every day. Find out what type of interests and abilities your children have up their sleeve and encourage them to pursue whatever they may be. If your children are not into sports, find another activity that may get them to get a daily dose of exercise. You can invite them to join you in your daily jog around the area, ask them to help you out with some chores around the house or even have them play out on the lawn with your canine relative.