Written by Neela K. Sethi, M.D.

Since it is American Heart Month, let’s remember to raise heart-healthy kids.  Here are some quick tips to help!

1) Lots of physical activity- Active kids are healthy kids, so get them outside doing something fun.  Get their heart rate up with lots of cardio and calorie-burning exercises.
2) Try to decrease television watching and video game playing. What ever happened to playing outside?
3) Get involved!  Get your child into group sports, activities, or even join your local YMCA.  They are into it, if you are into it.
4) Enjoy family fitness activities- Get the entire family out for a hike, brisk walk, run, and even play tag.  Again, it is always more fun for kids if you are involved.
5) Make you kids work for it- Avoid the stairs and elevators.  Park a little further from the entrance.
6) Choose fitness-oriented gifts- Get your child a basketball, soccer ball, jump rope, or even a trampoline this year.
7) Give your child chores that are more physically demanding- Try sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and raking as chore options.  They will burn more and probably hate it less.
8)  Back to basics, remember fruits and veggies- A healthy diet, means a healthy heart!
9) Remember to give lots of love to the ones around you this month!  Nothing warms a heart like a hug and kiss from your little one!