Advising a Teen on Leading a Healthy Lifestyle: Practical Suggestions

As a parent, it is essential to guide our teenagers towards a healthy lifestyle from a young age. Here are some practical advices that can help your pre-teen or teen lead a healthy life.

Move Your Body Daily

A teenager needs to engage in physical activity for at least one hour each day to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This does not have to be a strenuous activity; what matters is that it brings joy. Whether it's a 30-minute brisk walk, swimming, cycling, skating, dancing, or a mix of activities, the important thing is to stay active. Regular physical activity can help prevent obesity, boost energy levels, and improve mental health.

Make a Balanced Plate

Eating is a daily necessity, and what we eat has a significant impact on our health. A balanced plate means aiming for 1/4 protein, 1/4 healthy carbs, and 1/2 vegetables and fruits, especially leafy greens. The main focus should be on whole, non-processed foods. Using dividers on a plate to visually represent these portions can be particularly helpful for younger teens to understand portion control. If your teen is trying to increase their carb intake, they will need to adjust what fits within their plate and skip what doesn't.

Mind Matters

Mental health is just as important as physical health. If there's something bothering your teen, encourage them to talk to someone they trust. This could be a parent, a friend, or a professional. Keeping a balanced mental health is crucial for overall well-being. If your teen feels overwhelmed, discuss options for support, such as counseling or therapy.

Charge Your Health

Just like a mobile device needs to be charged when the battery is low, our health and well-being also need regular nurturing. Simple daily habits can significantly improve one's health. Some key suggestions include:

Early awakening: Start the day with a positive routine. A warm glass of water helps kickstart the body's natural functions. Daily hygiene: Attend to your daily hygiene, such as brushing teeth, bathing, and moisturizing. Exercise: Engage in at least 35-40 minutes of exercise daily. A long, slow stroll can also be beneficial. Balanced diet: Plan meals according to a balanced diet. Avoid junk food as much as possible, except for a maximum of 4-5 times a month. Adequate hydration: Drink at least 2 liters of water daily. Aim to have your first glass of water about an hour before lunch and your last meal of the day. Meditation: Incorporate daily meditation for 10-20 minutes to achieve mental serenity. This can help reduce stress and improve focus. Consistent sleep: Ensure your teen gets at least 8 hours of sleep consistently each night and try to maintain a consistent bedtime and wake time to establish a healthy sleep pattern.

Implementing these suggestions for a minimum of 100 days can be a great start. Over time, these habits should become second nature, leading to a healthier lifestyle overall. Consistency is key, and it's crucial to instill these practices in your teen at a young age to set them up for life-long health and wellness.

Conclusion

Encouraging your teenager to adopt a healthy lifestyle is a gift that keeps on giving. As a parent, you can play a pivotal role in shaping their habits and attitudes towards health. By integrating these practical suggestions into your teen's daily routine, you can help them lead a more balanced and healthy life.