As a family care physician, Ogechukwu Victor Adekweh is a big proponent of a family supporting one another to achieve their health goals. The family that is united in a healthy lifestyle is the family that earns a healthy lifestyle, according to Dr. Ogechukwu Victor Adekweh. Today, Dr. Adekweh will provide a roadmap for parents to follow to help keep the whole family healthy and happy.
1. Mandate Some Daily Physical Activity
Physical activity is significant for both our physical and mental well-being. In the digital age, it is straightforward to stay on the couch, lie in bed, play video games, or scroll through social media apps on our phones. However, parents should ensure that their children are involved in sports or other physical activity that gets them moving for at least sixty (60) minutes daily. US Department of Health and Human Services recommends that children and adolescents ages 6 through 17 years engage in 60 minutes (1 hour) or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily. During the offseason, families should consider going for family walks around the neighborhood or enjoying a family dance party to get their hearts pumping. Physical activity helps boost serotonin levels, which improves mood. It also doesn’t hurt that physical activity will lead to some tuckered-out kids, which leads to better sleep.
2. Prioritize Nutrition
Dr. Ogechukwu Victor Adekweh knows as a family care physician that many parents struggle with their kids refusing to eat certain healthy foods. While it can be easier to rely on fast food, it is critical to make a concerted effort to feed the entire family balanced, nutritious meals. There are countless foods designed for kids that sneak in fruits or vegetables. For example, there are exclusive brands of chicken nuggets that are made with veggies. Providing different incentives for trying out a new fruit or vegetable can also help create a love of fresh foods. As a general rule, families should look to limit the amount of sugar/sweets, salt, and total fat they consume daily and increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains according to Dr. Ogechukwu Victor Adekweh. When families eat better, they feel better.
3. Practice Family Safety
As a family care Physician, Dr. Ogechukwu Victor Adekweh is dedicated to the well-being of every family member. While most of his focus centers on diet and exercise, families need safety plans. For instance, every family should have a designated fire safety plan. All children should be aware of what to do in a fire. Also, parents should make sure to update their smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Parents should ensure that firearms are properly and safely secured, away from the reach of children in the home. In this age of smartphones and internet accessibility, Dr. Adekweh strongly encourages parents to develop a mechanism to keep an eye on what minor kids do on the web space.
4. Prioritize Hygiene
One of the best things a parent can do for their child’s health is to ensure they remain committed to their tooth brushing routine. Many children only brush their teeth once a night and aren’t adept at reaching all their teeth when they brush. Dr. Ogechukwu Victor Adekweh recommends that parents oversee the toothbrushing routine and help their children understand that they must cover all areas of their mouth. In addition to routine brushing, parents can keep illnesses at arm’s length by showing their children the importance of washing their hands before every meal and after every bathroom visit. These simple hygiene tips can make a significant impact on overall health. Dental checks are also recommend.
5. Be The Example
Smoking and drinking are two habits that many American adults enjoy, but the medical community recommend against these habits. Children are very impressionable, especially by the habits of their parents. If an adult is going to drink, they should be sure to set a good example and drink in moderation and never before getting behind the wheel of a car. Drinking should be limited to less than 3 drinks per day for men and less than 2 drinks per day for women. E-cigarettes have also been associated with lung injury, hence shouldn't be an alternative to cigarettes, says Dr. Adekweh.
6. Encourage Open Conversation About Feelings
Finally, Dr. Ogechukwu Victor Adekweh can’t stress enough how vital mental wellness is for every family member. One of the best ways to reduce stress is to talk out problems. Parents who create an environment where all family members feel comfortable voicing their opinions and sharing their strains do their family an excellent service.
