Top 3 Tips for a Healthy Family on a Tight Budget | Dr Ruhil Badiani | Cornerstone Clinic | Dubai

Dr. Ruhil Badiani, a British Family GP, offers her top 3 valuable tips for establishing healthy, budget-friendly 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.

 

1. FOODS THAT PRIORITISE HEALTH

Foods that are rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients help combat oxidative stress and regulate the body’s immune response. Fruits like berries, oranges, and cherries, as well as vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli, and bell peppers, are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including vitamin C and flavonoids, which help reduce inflammation. Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel provide omega-3 fatty acids, which counteract pro-inflammatory compounds. Whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes offer fibre, which promotes gut health and reduces inflammatory markers. Additionally, spices such as turmeric (containing curcumin) and ginger have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Together, these foods and their nutrients support the body’s natural ability to manage inflammation and protect against chronic disease.

 

2. WAYS TO INCORPORATE PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES IN A FAMILY’S DAILY ROUTINE

Incorporating physical activity into a busy family schedule can be fun and free thanks to online resources. Online platforms offer numerous options for everyone, from no-equipment home workouts to high-intensity dance classes that the whole family can enjoy. You can also opt for a more creative approach by building your own obstacle course at home, utilising everyday items like pillows, toys, and blankets. For outdoor fun, try taking walks in the park, biking, playing Frisbee, or using open spaces in local parks to play football, basketball, or any other activity your kids enjoy. Additionally, most schools offer free or low-cost after-school sports, which benefit children’s health and provide opportunities for social development, as well as the chance to try a variety of sports all in one place.

 

3. HYGIENE HABITS

To keep your family healthy, it goes without saying that maintaining good hygiene is the best way to prevent the spread of germs. Practising frequent handwashing, brushing your teeth twice daily, covering coughs and sneezes and practising regular cleaning and disinfecting are mandatory to keep you and your family healthy. Teaching good hygiene from an early age can help children develop responsibility for their own hygiene practices and incorporate them into their daily routine.

 

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.