by Jessica Watters
Here is another article on why we should keep our children at a healthy weight click here to read article.
Instead of just "tweeting" this article I wanted to say a few words on this. Childhood obesity is a real threat to the future of our children. It can lead to children with adult problems, like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, joint problems and self esteem issues. And as the article above mentions, even something like OTC medicine can not work properly in a child who is overweight.
All of this is can be reversed if we just make sure that we feed our children healthy foods, get plenty of exercise and good sleep. As parents, its our responsibility to set a good example for our kids. How can we expect our children to eat healthy, exercise and sleep well when we're not doing it ourselves?
It's scary to think that we could be doing the most damage to our own kids, but unfortunately its true. And it doesn't just stop with taking care of our bodies, it also means we should control our tempers, watch what we say and do and who we associate with.
I remember feeling embarrassed because Alexa was shouting at her brothers like a little tyrant. But I know where she got it from. Me!! I was mortified, because she looked like a miniature version of me, reading them the riot act, but in one-year old language. She even had the facial expressions right!
So if my children can pick up this type of behavior from me, what else are they picking up?
I wish I could say that since that incident my behavior has totally changed. Well it has and it hasn't. I still fall back on my bad habits, but I'm really trying hard to use my "inside voice" and to watch what I say about someone or something. I'm also trying to make sure that my kids watch me take care of myself by eating the right foods and in the right amount. I want them to see me exercise and feel like they want to jump in.
Hey, it isn't always pretty, they can turn my P90X workout into a chaotic mess, but at least they're moving and appreciating how they feel after exercising. And I get to spend some quality time with them, hopefully instilling a good quality in them for when they grow up.
If you have a child who is either overweight or at risk for being overweight, talk to your pediatrician. Make sure its not a medical reason. If they are all clear to exercise and start eating right, look into making changes for the whole family.
If you have questions about childhood obesity and would like to start your child on an exercise program, email me at wattersjes@msn.com There are many options and most are very affordable or free.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
The importance of drinking water
bu Jessica Watters
I have been telling people for years that you need to drink plenty of water in order for your body to function at peak performance.
This is especially important for people who do regular exercise. Drinking water is also a great way to help you feel full while watching what you eat. It also helps hydrate your skin helping you look better too.
I used to be really good at drinking lots of water when I worked full-time in an office. I had a big glass, and whenever it was empty, I'd go to the cooler and fill it up. I easily took in at least 64 oz of water per day. But once I started my own fitness business and staying home with my kids, it became harder to remember to drink my daily water requirement. So to help me with this, I bought a large plastic, refillable water bottle that holds 20 oz. Every time its empty, I fill it up with water from the fridge. I fill it up at least 3 times during the day (if not more), and I feel so much better now for doing that.
A lot of times, people will often mistake thirst for hunger. So they tend to go looking for something to munch on, instead of something to drink. Or some people start to feel tired during the day due to the fact they are dehydrated. But instead of going for water, they go for coffee, which will dehydrate you more because it acts as a diuretic.
So take the water challenge. Aim for drinking at least 64 oz per day. And when you are working out or sweating due to heat, go for more. It won't cost you a lot and the health benefits you will receive will be priceless.
If you have questions about fitness or nutrition, send me an email to wattersjes@msn.com
I have been telling people for years that you need to drink plenty of water in order for your body to function at peak performance.
This is especially important for people who do regular exercise. Drinking water is also a great way to help you feel full while watching what you eat. It also helps hydrate your skin helping you look better too.
I used to be really good at drinking lots of water when I worked full-time in an office. I had a big glass, and whenever it was empty, I'd go to the cooler and fill it up. I easily took in at least 64 oz of water per day. But once I started my own fitness business and staying home with my kids, it became harder to remember to drink my daily water requirement. So to help me with this, I bought a large plastic, refillable water bottle that holds 20 oz. Every time its empty, I fill it up with water from the fridge. I fill it up at least 3 times during the day (if not more), and I feel so much better now for doing that.
A lot of times, people will often mistake thirst for hunger. So they tend to go looking for something to munch on, instead of something to drink. Or some people start to feel tired during the day due to the fact they are dehydrated. But instead of going for water, they go for coffee, which will dehydrate you more because it acts as a diuretic.
So take the water challenge. Aim for drinking at least 64 oz per day. And when you are working out or sweating due to heat, go for more. It won't cost you a lot and the health benefits you will receive will be priceless.
If you have questions about fitness or nutrition, send me an email to wattersjes@msn.com
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