As the excitement of back-to-school approaches, it’s essential to prioritise your family’s health and well-being. Dr. Ruhil Badiani, a British Family GP, offers valuable insights on establishing healthy habits that can last a lifetime. Establishing a healthy lifestyle from a young age is crucial for children’s development. By modelling good habits, parents play a pivotal role in shaping their children’s future health. Remember, small steps can lead to significant changes.
Engaging in physical activity together is a fantastic way to bond and improve overall health. Incorporate exercise into your daily routine by opting for stairs instead of elevators, parking further away from stores, and walking or biking to school when possible. Make weekends adventurous with hikes, bike rides, or beach activities. Remember, the key is to have fun and create lasting memories.
Healthy eating can be a challenge, especially with picky eaters. Involve your children in meal preparation to foster a positive relationship with food. Opt for whole grains, limit sugary drinks, and encourage fruit and vegetable consumption. Hiding vegetables in sauces can be a sneaky yet effective way to increase their intake. Don’t forget you must eat your fruit and vegetables too so your kids can learn from you. Remember, you’re a role model, so lead by example.
Adequate sleep is essential for children’s growth and development. Create a calming bedtime routine, such as reading or taking a warm bath. Infants require 12-16 hours at night, toddlers 11-14 hours, preschoolers 10-13 hours younger school children 9-12 hours and teens 8-10 hours. Sometimes children will fight sleep or complain they can’t sleep. Avoid screens at least 1-2 hours before bedtime and have them read a book to you or you read to them to help them get into a routine. Limit screen time before bed to improve sleep quality.
While technology is prevalent, it’s crucial to set boundaries. Establish screen time limits and choose age-appropriate content. Encourage outdoor activities, hobbies, and face-to-face interactions to promote a balanced lifestyle.
Schedule regular check-ups for your children and ensure they are up-to-date with vaccinations. Adults should also prioritize preventive care, including screenings and addressing any health concerns. While vitamins can be beneficial, a balanced diet is often sufficient. Consult your doctor for personalised advice on vitamin supplements.
Your children learn by observing your habits. Prioritise your own health and well-being, and your family will be more likely to follow suit. Remember, small, consistent changes can make a big difference.
If you would like to book a consultation, contact us at +971 50 494 6377 and arrange an appointment with our GP, Dr Ruhil Badiani.
Dr Ruhil Badiani is a British doctor, who studied, graduated and practised in London for 10 years, before moving out to Dubai. Dr Ruhil Badiani has experience in treating patients of all ages and backgrounds. She values the patient doctor relationship and recognises the importance of psychological and social factors, as well as the physical factors, which contribute to a patient’s presentation. She recognises the importance of lifestyle changes to improve health and prevent disease, and is confident in the diagnosis and monitoring of chronic disease.
