Inculcating healthy eating habits in children is essential for their physical and mental development. Experts from Juice Plus emphasize that families play a crucial role in shaping these habits, which are essential for preventing childhood obesity and its complications. Aware that establishing positive eating habits from childhood is vital, they propose strategies to promote healthy growth.
A balanced diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins, not only provides the necessary energy for daily life but also promotes proper cognitive development and optimal immune function. In contrast, a diet lacking in nutrients can lead to health problems. Recent data shows that in Spain, 30% of children between 2 and 17 years are overweight, and a concerning 70% do not meet the minimum recommended daily exercise amount.
To address this issue, Juice Plus highlights the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle from an early age, which includes not only dietary habits but also physical activity and adequate rest. The organization proposes four key pillars that motivate families to make significant changes in their daily lives.
First, nutrition is key; sharing meals as a family not only allows for moments of togetherness but also gives parents the opportunity to be role models for balanced eating. Second, promoting physical activity and setting shared sports goals is crucial for maintaining an active lifestyle. Third, establishing a sleep routine is vital, as children require more hours of sleep than adults, complementing the aspect of meals. Finally, proper hydration is recommended, prioritizing water and avoiding sugary drinks which provide empty calories.
Although reaching the minimum intake of fruits and vegetables may be challenging for some families, Juice Plus offers their “Healthy Starts for Families” program, designed to incentivize changes in family eating habits. This program includes products such as Juice Plus+ Essentials capsules, which contain a blend of 30 fruits, vegetables, and berries, and Juice Plus+ Soft gummies, which encompass 20 fruits and vegetables in an appealing format for children.
Specialists emphasize that the priority should always be introducing children to a wide range of fruits and vegetables, encouraging them to explore different flavors and textures from a young age, thus facilitating the adoption of healthy eating habits that will last throughout their lives.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
