When you have a family, you must look after both your and your children’s health. Promoting a healthy lifestyle together is a good start, even if it’s challenging. As a parent, it’s important to watch your health and teach your children how to do so as they get older. One way you can do this is by making sure that packed lunches are healthy and nutritious.
You can be self-assured that you are doing everything possible to keep your family fit and healthy if you instil good values and the importance of healthy lifestyles through an adequate diet. As the children go back to school, you can make sure you are doing this by providing a healthy lunch box.
Let’s have a look at some of the things you should think about:
Make Sure You Offer Water, Milk, Or Juice
First, make sure everyone has enough water. Water must be your family’s main drink and the first option. It’s tempting to give in to requests for fizzy pop but always offer water first. Set a good example for children by packing water in your own lunch. Ensure they understand this so they can stay hydrated throughout the day.
Another alternative could be to offer juice or milk. Freshways has some great choices for you to choose from. All of the products are fresh, of great quality, and reasonably priced. So, grab a few water bottles and make sure your whole family has the fluids they need for the day.
Nutritional Foods
When packing your lunch boxes, you need to consider the family’s diet. Family meals should be well-balanced, and include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and dairy items. A big part of this should be included in your daily lunch boxes.
Try offering a variety of nutrients. You could include things like sandwiches on wholemeal bread using healthy spreads from Freshways, a fruit snack pack, and some nuts to snack on.
Once you have the lunch boxes organised and packed full of nutrients you can enjoy the odd takeaway, in moderation. If you eat out often, encourage your kids to make smart choices. If they’re young, give them menu options instead of free reign. Offer them milk in the morning, have yoghurt with fruit as a snack or dessert, or even add milk to smoothies for a nutritious boost.
If they’re young, give them menu options instead of free reign. Offer them milk in the morning, have yoghurt with fruit as a snack or dessert, or even add milk to smoothies for a nutritious boost.
Model Behaviour
No one is perfect; this isn’t a requirement. Setting and following an example is more beneficial than simply talking to your children. Always follow your example and advice. Many unhealthy parents have unhealthy children, leading to more illness. It’s a vicious cycle. Set a good example by eating well, exercising regularly, encouraging family activities, getting regular checkups, and sharing your thoughts on healthy living. Always answer questions honestly.
These areas are important for family health and child development. Any other ideas? Please comment.