Jump On!

Get Your Teen on the Healthy Family Bandwagon

By Kim Seidel

Parents striving to improve their eating and exercising habits may achieve extra benefits beyond weight loss and increased energy. Their teenagers may start to improve their own lifestyles as well.

"Without question, children watch what their parents do and are very responsive in their own actions," says Dr. Anne Kulze, a nationally recognized expert in nutrition. She points out that parents must be the primary role model for their children in all aspects of a healthy lifestyle, including eating the right foods and exercising. "Parents, peers and the media have the greatest influence on teens, and by far, parents have the most influence if they take advantage of it," she says. "Make healthy changes. You are missing out on an incredible opportunity if you do not."

Sharing family meals is a powerful way for parents to role model healthy choices. According to Dr. Kulze, studies show that families who regularly eat together at home consume more fruits and veggies and less calories and junk food than those who don't dine together or eat often at restaurants. Studies also show that teens who sit down and eat with their parents engage in less risky behavior, such as substance abuse and sexual promiscuity, than their peers who don't consistently share meals at home with Mom and Dad.

Aim to have family meals at least four to five days a week, but there's a value in two to three times a week too, says Dr. Kulze, the mother of four children. Her family eats together most days of the week, and she describes herself as an excellent cook.

Along with sharing family meals, Dr. Kulze provides other tips for parents who want their teenagers to jump on the healthy family bandwagon. It's such a simple concept that most parents don't think about it: Don't bring junk food into the home. "Parents essentially control the food environment in the household," she says. Make sure the cupboard and the refrigerator are filled with healthy fare. If unwholesome choices aren't there, it's not an option.

Want to see more?

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• Low-carb Diets and Teens: Nonsense or Common Sense?
• Heart-healthy Fitness: Great for All Ages!
• Talk about it!