Sunday, February 20, 2011

Health Tips for February 20

Health Tip: Teach Kids About Portion Control

Whopping portion sizes are a big reason for why people overeat. But if you teach your children about appropriate portion sizes, they may be more likely to stick to healthy portions into adulthood.

The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions:

  • Put meals on smaller plates so that the portion appears larger.
  • Divide snacks into small portions, instead of sending your child off to snack with the whole bag.
  • Separate leftovers into small portion sizes, instead of storing them in larger containers.
  • Serve food away from the table, which may limit family members from going back for seconds.
  • Produce single-serving foods to help your children visualize what an appropriate serving is.
  • Eat meals slowly, and make sure they contain plenty of fruits and vegetables.
  • Split orders at a restaurant.
  • Skip the plus-sized value meals at fast-food eateries.

Health Tip: Your Child May Be Stressed

Even kids can be stressed out, to the point that it affects their physical and psychological health.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says these are possible signs that your child is under too much stress:

  • Physical complaints such as a stomach ache or headache.
  • Fatigue, restlessness or agitation.
  • Signs of depression, although the child is not very communicative.
  • Irritability and loss of interest in favorite activities.
  • Lack of interest in school, dropping grades.
  • Behavioral changes such as lying, stealing, avoiding responsibilities at home or becoming more dependent on parents.

No comments: