Researchers at Harvard University T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that children are 75% less likely to develop obesity when mothers stick to the following five healthy habits.
- Exercise regularly
- Eating a healthy diet
- Keeping a healthy body weight
- Drinking alcohol only in moderation
- Not smoking
This study looked at children between the ages of 9-18.
By no means am I saying a mother can not be a good mother if she does not follow the above 5 tips, but not only in my opinion but as the research indicates to be the best version of yourself you should follow the above guidelines whether a mom, dad, you have no children, etc. I actually have 5 healthy F’s that I encourage people of all ages to follow. I have spoken to various schools and adult organizations on them and believe that if we focus on being healthy in each of them we will live the best life we can. Keep in mind; what’s healthy for you may be different than myself and/or different than someone else. You need to decide what’s healthy for you as well as with the above guidelines you must decide what exercising regularly, drinking in moderation and what’s a healthy body weight.
STS’ 5 Healthy F’s
- Faith. You may or may not be religious and that’s not what this is about. You need to have faith in yourself, in the fact you can do what you set your mind to and for some of us our religion. You can be healthy in this by doing the following: If you go to church, go. Say or list things you are grateful for every morning and night. Say self-affirmations.
- Family. Whether you are a mom, dad, brother, sister, son, daughter or you may not have any blood relatives you’re close to. Having a healthy relationship with your family will help you to feel connected, have accountability and overall the sense of love. Ways to be healthy: Tell those in your family you love them. When they talk, listen. Pick up the phone and give that long distance family member a call. Share hopes and dreams.
- Friends. You may have several or you may have a select few. Whatever amount, focus on “healthy” friends. Healthy friends are those that support you, listen to you, don’t try to get you to go off your diet, exercise plan, life plan, etc.… Often times we need to take a hard look at whom we hang out with and make some changes. You are the accumulation of those closest to you.
- Food. I feel healthy food is food that makes you feel your best. If eating chips and salsa makes you happy, you are content with your weight and you can control how many you have, eat up. If they make you feel bloated, make your heart race and/or you can’t control how many you have then stay away from them. Try to eat a variety of foods, especially fruits and veggies. I suggest you track your eating to see what produces the feel and look you desires.
- Fitness. For some this may be working out 6 days a week. Others it may be 3. Whatever you can fit into your life is what will be healthy for you at this time. That being said we all need at least 30 minutes of activity daily. Ideally if it’s light (walking for example) I suggest you get 45-60 minutes a day. Obviously the more fit you are, the more you enjoy exercise the more you’ll do. Much like with nutrition, tracking your exercise and seeing how you’re feeling.
The next time you are struggling to go to the gym (especially you moms) remember what you do and do not do impacts not only you personally, but those close to you. Lead by example and use the power of influence you have to get you to exercise, drink a little less, stop (or don’t start) smoking, maintain a healthy weight and eat healthy! The children our future and they are looking to you to help lead them.
Scott Keppel is the owner of Scott’s Training Systems, a world-class coaching facility in Chandler, Arizona. He is a nationally certified trainer through NASM and ISSA. His mission is to empower women of all ages and fitness levels. For more information head to scottstrainingsystems.com or check him out on Instagram at @stsnation.
