Creating a heart healthy environment in childrenneeds to be aware of what to do and have good health family also encourages other members to adopt an active lifestyle. As a community, it is important to have open spaces, walking, jogging and cycling paths, while monitoring air and noise pollution to also reduce the risk of heart disease.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Lakshmy Menon, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Bellandur, Bangalore, suggested the following screen-free activities to improve your children’s heart health and develop lasting well-being.

1. Activity and exercise:

• Choose activities for toddlers and children like running, cycling, skating, etc. or enrolling them in disciplined sports activities keeps them active.
• Children and adolescents need at least 1-2 hours of vigorous physical activity which may include team sports/games like tennis, badminton/swimming, etc.
• An active family becomes a good role model for children. If kids see their parents out and about all the time, or if they see them exercising, it normalizes them so they want to participate with them, too.
• Group activities as a family, like going for a hike or hike or playing outdoor games, really help bond and stay fit.
• Involve children in household chores to reduce time spent on the couch.

2. Guidelines for eating less fat

• Use techniques such as grilling, grilling, shallow frying, or baking more often than frying.
• Increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Smart snacking including items like oil-free popcorn, lotus seeds like makhanas, fruit salads or soups are encouraged.
• Use fruit for desserts instead of high-fat, high-sugar preparations that include baked goods.
• Treat the family to a meal out once a week or month. Keep your goals realistic and don’t expect dramatic choices from children.

3. Screen Time Recommendations

• Helping them get away from the screen means encouraging their interest in reading and pursuing other activities such as debates, theater, outdoor games, etc.
• Under 2 years old – no screen time is recommended except for a few minutes with family or friends. 2-5 years old – no more than 1 hour per day, 5-8 years old – no more than 2 hours per day, except for doing homework. Any time spent in front of a screen that interferes with their physical activity should be discouraged.
• Initiation to social media only occurs after 13 years and active engagement after 16 to 18 years.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have regarding a health problem.