GETTING FAMILY INVOLVED WITH YOUR HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

If you’ve made the decision to start living healthier, this can be heavily influenced by those around you. It’s going to make everything that much easier, if your family is on board with the goals you are trying to achieve. Lifeshape Clinic dietitian Nicola Moore has some great tips to encourage the whole family to adopt some healthier habits.

HEALTHY SWAPS AND AMENDMENTS

If you’re adopting healthier choices in your meals, you might be daunted by the thought of making different meals for yourself, partner and children.

However, this can be alleviated with some simple swaps or amendments.

“If you’re making some fish and vegetables for dinner, you can simply add additional sauces, mash or bread to their meals and keep yours as is,” Nicola suggests.

ENCOURAGE PARTICIPATION

Getting everyone involved in what you’re doing is a great way to help them understand the changes you’re making.

If you have the space, get the family involved in planting a herb garden and harvesting the produce.

“Get the kids in the kitchen and have them chop, peel or grate veggies for dinner or go on family bike rides together,” Nicola says.

POSITIVE VIBES AND ROLE-MODELLING

Adopting a healthier lifestyle doesn’t have to sound daunting to the family.

Create positive language around your new lifestyle rather than focusing on ‘dieting’.

To get the family thinking positively about physical activity, use language like “I feel so good after going for a walk each night, would you like to start coming with me?”.

“Being a positive role model is an important part of your children’s perception of food,” Nicola says.

Try these steps over time, as your family may need time to adjust to your lifestyle just as you might.

For more information, contact Lifeshape Clinic on 1800 567 348 or visit www.lifeshape.com.au