Nutrition
Personalized Labels For Healthy Lifestyles
Diseases can be broadly classified into two categories; the ones that are caused by viruses and bacteria and the ones that are caused by unhealthy living habits, especially eating. These days, a lot of information that links diet to health is available on the Internet. Television programs also advise people what to eat, and what should be avoided. In the past, people were not as aware of healthy eating as they are now. This is the reason our ancestors were more prone to diseases such as diabetes, coronary problems, and thyroid problems, which are entirely avoidable if one opts for healthy eating.
Healthy eating does not mean altogether avoiding certain foods. We have to admit that often we don’t take the necessary time for preparing food and tend to eat ready-made food that sometimes even looks healthy, but it is far from that. We should be limiting our consumption of such foods. Ice creams, chocolates, sweets, and fried food come under this category. On the other hand, we should be increasing our intake of fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Fruits and vegetables must be fresh.
Eating them with their natural fiber rather than drinking them in juice or frappe would be healthier. Parents should explain this to their kids and lead by example. If children see their parents eat healthy food, they are bound to be more inclined to do the same.
However, such foods do not taste as good as ice creams and fast foods. Therefore, they get marginalized in our diets. There are some vitamins and minerals which can cause significant health problems if not taken in adequate quantities. This is the reason why it is necessary to know the food pyramid and daily needs.
Minerals and vitamins can be supplemented in the form of tablets and tonics. However, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins should be taken in the ratio that is as near to the food pyramid as possible, to prevent ailments such as diabetes and heart diseases. This is easier said than done because we don’t measure food before we eat it. Still, it can be balanced if we take a little time to do some research at least once a month.
These days most food products come with information about their content and composition on their packaging or labels. Selecting the right type of food and consuming the correct quantity is, therefore, not that difficult. Parents need to teach children to read these labels and understand their value.
The main problem is when kids are used to eating fatty and sugary foods and snacks while watching TV and while at school. Many are used to eating meals on a regular bases because their minds are programmed to eat something in their leisure time. Snacks are usually rich in carbohydrates and fats, and these need to be cut down. One way to bring down such unhealthy snacking is to take small portions of snacks instead of taking a large quantity and sitting in front of the television set. Small parts force people to get up again for another round, which they are not happy to do. Effectively, it reduces the amount of snacks that one person eats.
One of the reasons people fail to maintain a healthy eating program is because they feel they have been unable to measure up. It is alright to indulge occasionally, but this needs to be done in moderation. Avoiding breakfast is a bad habit, and eating late at night is not advisable either. By timing your kids’ eating routines and mealtimes, you can help to program their bodies to accept less and the right kind of food.
Another great thing that can help kids learn to eat healthy is by personalizing their items. Personalized labels on water bottles and lunch boxes, silicone placemats that are used for every meal, help to monitor food intake as well as encourage children to adhere to a healthy eating schedule.
Also, parents can be sure that the food their kids eat is fresh and well preserved. Personalized kids’ labels on such bottles and lunch boxes keep kids away from buying food and drinks from kiosks and school canteens. Effectively, they ensure that he or she does not consume any food that may not be right for his or her health.