Your Health

Small Changes Add Up To A Healthier Lifestyle

Posted 4/29/2011

With a little planning, your family can enjoy colorful, flavorful, nutritious meals.

(NAPSI) - Making small changes every day may help your family have a healthier lifestyle. Here are a few to consider:

Eat a Variety of Colorful Produce

A balanced breakfast can help you start the day with focus and energy. A 6-ounce serving of juice is equal to one serving of fruit or vegetables, according to the USDA. Be sure to choose juices made from real fruit and without added sugar or artificial ingredients. To reduce consumption of unwanted pesticide residues, choose organic fruits, vegetables and beverages when possible.

Snack Well

Snacks such as string cheese and nuts are great sources of protein for on-the-go energy. For added crunch, pair with fresh apple slices and organic, whole-grain crackers. Kids love color and choice. Ask children to choose their favorite red, yellow and green vegetables, then slice and serve with hummus for a fun “traffic signal” snack. Pack simple fresh veggies such as sliced carrot and celery sticks for lunch.

Get Moving

Try to balance getting adequate rest and daily exercise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children ages 6 to 17 should do 60 minutes of physical activity or more each day. Keep it fun for the whole family; try walking, jumping rope or cycling together.

Drink Up

Hydration is important. Soda sweetened with sugar can add empty calories, so choose water or dilute fruit juices with sparkling water. Choose naturally decaffeinated beverages such as fruit juice or water after lunchtime. Celebrate special occasions with nonalcoholic sparkling beverages such as R.W. Knudsen Family® sparkling Celebratory® beverages.

Protect the Environment

Buying organic products helps support farmers who are building healthy soil and promoting biodiversity that encourages wildlife to thrive. Where possible, use public transportation or carpool. If it’s safe enough for you to bike or walk to work, the extra effort may also boost your fitness in addition to reducing vehicle emissions.

To help families make smart choices, R.W. Knudsen Family offers wholesome fruit products that contain no artificial flavors, preservatives or added sugar. To view 50 Healthy Lifestyle Tips and details of a special 50th Anniversary promotion, “The Grape Escape,” a trip for two to Napa Valley, visit www.rwknudsenfamily.com, or “like” R.W. Knudsen Family on Facebook at www.facebook.com/rwknudsen.