If you’re preparing to ring in the new year with a New Year’s resolution, here’s a pledge that will help your entire family live a healthier lifestyle. Be a Good Role Model, Eat Right and Get Active. That advice comes from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. A recent study by the Academy shows parents have more potential to influence their children’s behavior than anyone else!
Here are 5 tips to jump start 2014 in a nutritious, delicious and active way. Focus on overall health, not weight alone. Plan meals with your children, from choosing menus and grocery shopping to preparing ingredients, cooking and serving.Eat breakfast everyday and enjoy family dinners together as often as possible.
Serve balanced meals. Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables, focus on lean proteins and choose whole grains.
And finally, get physical. Take a family walk, go on a bike ride, weather permitting, or hit the gym. Parents should get at least two and a half hours of exercise a week children about 60 minutes per day.
Bottom line, according to the experts, take small steps when changing your lifestyle. They’re much easier to stick with over time.
I’m Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV with the health news for you and your family.

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