Type 2 Diabetes is no longer confined to older adults. We have entered an era of Diabetes in young adults below 40 and sadly teens too.
The modern life of convenience meals and takeaways, along with busy schedules that leave little time for relaxation and exercise is the main reason behind this era.
Families play an important role in shaping habits that protect everyone’s health. Teaching kids healthy eating habits from a young age may reduce the risk of Diabetes as well as other lifestyle diseases.
Here are some family friendly tips you can adopt to help prevent Diabetes:
- Limit fast food intake.
You don’t have to have burger and chips every Friday. Your pocket will thank you too. If you must get takeaways, opt for healthier takeaways
- Try healthy versions of Traditional foods.
We love our pap as south African, but try having healthier starches, like whole grain and vegetables for most part of the week.
- Move as a team. Family walks after dinner can go a long wait in burning some calories, plus you get to bond while at it.
- Smart shopping
If its not in the cupboard, chances are you wont crave it. Pick healthier snacks like fruits, nuts, provita, yogurt, etc
Set a family rule- Sugary drinks only on special occasions. Sugar free is not any healthier.
- Regular health check-ups
Schedule health screenings together. This will motivate your family to live healthily.
Diabetes prevention is not just about avoiding illness, its about building a culture of health at home.
Lazy to visit the doctors room? Why don’t you book an online appointment on www.drmomcares.co.za and get your laboratory form emailed to you to make your life easier.
