Eating Right When the Sun is Bright

What are you going to do to keep your kids healthy and sunburn free this summer? One of the main things you need to do to keep your kids healthy when they play out in the sun is to make sure they are properly hydrated and fueled with the right drinks and foods.

Keeping your child stimulated and healthy in this day and age can be quite the undertaking. In a world of high technology, a generation has been created that is more immobile than any other generation. Computers, TV’s, and lots of other gadgets pique this generation’s interests; interests which mostly require sitting down in order to be stimulated. This results in a lot of physical inactivity and less healthy habits all together.

There are several ways to keep your children healthy this summer. Be sure to supply them with healthy food and snack choices. Leave the junk food at the grocery store and fill your cabinets with tasty healthy foods and treats.

It’s not logical to think that a child or adult will abstain from all kinds of junk food, but what is important is to develop a liking for healthy foods. So you can’t get your child to eat a celery stick, but have you ever filled it with cheese or peanut butter? Have you tried a banana on a peanut butter sandwich? You might be amazed at the different kinds of foods that actually compliment each other when put together. It just takes a bit of imagination and creativity.

A good way for your child to incorporate healthy eating habits into their life is to let them prepare some of their own snacks and foods. Chances are that if they help make it, they will be more willing to try a new food or combination. Really, who knew that artichokes could be so kid friendly? A lot of kids actually like eating an artichoke when they see that it’s a hands on and dipping kind of food. A little bit messy makes a fun time for kids, but who cares if it’s healthy?

It is also important to teach your child about nutrition and balance. Together you could make a list of foods that are high in protein and fiber mixed with the right amounts of good carbohydrates and sugars. Involving your child will help add more enthusiasm for eating healthy and greater chances of not becoming overweight. Together, you can make grocery lists and plan out meals, all the while teaching them how to keep these meals nutritious through the preparation process.

Stay active and get involved in activities that pique your child’s interests. Are they athletic, artistic, or maybe have a flare for drama? There are so many activities that will help to keep your child fit and healthy. Most importantly, you have to be moving. Let’s not forget about the ‘oldies, but goodies’ like cops and robbers, catch with your best friend or just a nice bike ride.

It seems as though the era of “use your imagination