| ||
|
Simplicity - A Way to an Easier and Happier Life Simplicity: For anyone to change or to keep motivated we need it to be easy. We are a society of: "The easier the better". We are a society of instant gratification. Change takes time and patience, we all must understand this. This doesn’t mean it has to be hard. Once you develop a routine with your new habits, it will come naturally. Just remember, to change or break a habit can take 30 days or more. Real Life Solution: I always talk about how it took me about 6 weeks to form my new lifestyle. I talk about creating a new schedule. My schedule consists of Gratitude moments when I first wake up and before I go to bed, journal writing, pay it forward on a daily basis, being aware of any negativity around me and releasing it so I can spread positive vibes, changing how I speak with my word choices and meditation. I also added a new exercise routine and diet. It seems like a lot but the truth is – it’s not. Once I added everything in and picked the times I felt the most comfortable with, add a few weeks and, well, it became my new life. What at first seemed unnatural and weird turned into the moments of the day I look forward to. I love my gratitude moments – they clear my head, meditation gives me a sense of calm/peace which I need to keep balanced, exercise always makes me feel better, no matter what is going on in my day and, well, there is no end to the happiness I get by paying it forward and releasing the negative baggage that comes my way. The first few weeks were hard, some of it was a struggle, some of it I couldn’t figure out – the meditation part took way longer than 6 weeks but now, 6 months later and I can be in silence. I can honestly look back and say none of this was hard work, it was actually enjoyable and unlike other habits I tried to form that were difficult and uncomfortable, I caught a high with these. An emotional high, a connection within myself I have never felt before. The other side of simple –Simple is the key to life. The simple things are what really make us happy. Think about what truly makes you happy throughout your day and you will see the truth. simple = happiness. Example: What makes me happy during my day is the first cup of coffee in the morning, the sun shining thru my window when I awaken for the morning, my daughter and dog both running into my bed to fight for their mommy’s attention, a good song on the radio, a chocolate bar, a glass of wine – my list could go on forever but you get the point. Write a list of what you love to do each day, those simple little things that you take for granted and rush thru. Look at the list and realize how many simple pleasures are going on throughout your whole day. Now go to bed and when you wake up tomorrow do everything a little slower, be aware of the simple pleasures, smile while doing it, share the pleasure with others. These simple pleasures will brighten up your whole day. Your awareness of your likes has heightened and nothing in your day really changed except for your awareness and appreciation for the simple things in life. What’s easier then that? Parent Tip: We constantly talk about the economy and teaching children how to appreciate the little things in life. We want to teach kids how to enjoy nature, gardening, playing outside in parks on swing sets without video games and computers. We want to teach kids the value of spending time with family and friends. We want to teach kids about reading instead of watching TV, seeing people face to face instead of by text message or e-mail. We want children to know the value of a dollar. This tip in living a simple life will pass these values down to your children. My daughter has learned a few valuable things including the joy of spending time outside in nature with friends. She has learned the value of a dollar – we spend quality time together making food lists, cutting coupons and shopping together. My daughter accompanies me to the farmers market every Saturday where we buy local, organic fresh fruits and vegetables. These are values that are easy to instill thru hands on activities. Share with your family, the simple things in life. Make it a family commitment to be more green, to buy local, to spend more time with family and friends and teach your child the real value of a dollar- money doesn’t buy happiness! A personal Comment – it’s so funny that we never notice how easy it is to be happy. What you just read above is common sense but yet I never paid attention or took the time to notice any of it. I feel like I opened up a whole new chapter of my life even though nothing materially has changed. I’m still at the same house, same job, same family, location, etc. but yet everything feels new. A therapist at the Universal Institute in Livingston, New Jersey, Diane Lang counsels patients with traumatic brain injury and substance abuse issues. Her clinical experience includes patients with different forms of mental illness, physical and emotional abuse, and marriage and relationship problems, among others. Viewed as an expert in the world of balancing motherhood and career, Diane Lang’s first book Baby Steps: the Path from Motherhood to Career, was introduced last year. Baby Steps helps women sort through the thinking and second-guessing that accompanies returning to the workforce, and stresses striving for balance, health and happiness rather than “having it all.” As a speaker, Lang presents her workshop “The Mom Series” in NY metro area locations, to assist mothers returning to work. Additionally, Lang is a regular contributor to working mother and parenthood blogs such as MomsontheMove.com and MommyTalk.com. Alongside her work in the motherhood-career forum, Lang works as an Adjunct Professor in Psychology at Montclair State University and Centenary College. She also serves as co-host and guest expert on the Expat radio show, a global radio show for and about expatriates, discussing topics such as the stress of moving abroad. Lang made her debut as a therapist for ourprisoner.com, a reality based Internet show, where she held weekly sessions with the “prisoner” dealing with identity, insecurity and emotional abuse issues. Her other on camera credits include Host for Generation X-tinct, Absolute Fitness and various educational videos. A Mother to six year-old daughter Lauren, Lang’s academic credentials include an M.A. in Counseling and a B.A. in Liberal Arts from the New York Institute of Technology. Diane can be reached at Lifeline36@aol.com. | ||
 
  |
|
| Prior The Balancing Act Columns
10/8/2009 What My Daughter Taught Me I have come to realize the power of children. I always knew that children were special |
|
| |
|
10/8/2009 What My Daughter Taught Me I have come to realize the power of children. I always knew that children were special but until I had my daughter, I could only imagine the power they hold. The truth is kids hold a secret power that makes us love unconditionally, follow our gut instincts to protect them, take care of them, think about them constantly and motivate us to be better people. This is such a strong power that I can’t help but think it belongs in a Positive lifestyle column. So, here it is: The teachings of my daughter 1. My daughter has taught me to love again. I was closed off due to my past and the baggage caused by my past but my daughter taught me the way to wipe the slate clean and start all over again. Not only did she teach me to love fully but she taught me to trust again 2. My daughter taught me it’s ok to act like a child- to be silly, laugh and smile all the time. She taught me silly is good - we all need a little silly in our life. We all need to have fun, be fun and share our fun times with others 3. My daughter taught me to be more creative. That creativity is a gift and should be expressed on a daily basis. 4. My daughter taught me that stereotypes, prejudices and bias are all learned traits. My daughter doesn’t care about the color of your skin, race or religion of another person. She doesn’t care if they are rich or poor, their physical attractiveness or lack of. None of this ever made a difference. My daughter has met people in wheelchairs, with walkers and other disabilities - she never knew the difference. The only thing my daughter ever said or cared about was: Are they nice and do they like to play? My daughter is truly color blind! 5. Kids only know of NOW!! They don’t worry about future issues, they don’t complain about the past. They just do and be. What a relief that is -- to know people can live in the now and the past or future doesn’t have to be in control of you. Think about it: why would we worry about a future that isn’t here yet and could change at any moment? Why worry about a past that is gone, can’t be changed? Why not learn and move forward with hope? 6. My daughter taught me the joy of a smile, a hug, jumping in my bed - waking me up first thing in the morning, My daughter taught me to feel again thru touch! She taught me it’s ok to hug, kiss and hold hands. The simple pleasures of life. 7. My daughter taught me to learn again thru observation, senses and play. I no longer have to learn thru a text book and formal training, I have other options. I can learn thru hands on experience. This only touches the surface of what I have learned from my daughter. Why do they always say children learn from adults? It might be the other way around. A therapist at the Universal Institute in Livingston, New Jersey, Diane Lang counsels patients with traumatic brain injury and substance abuse issues. Her clinical experience includes patients with different forms of mental illness, physical and emotional abuse, and marriage and relationship problems, among others. Viewed as an expert in the world of balancing motherhood and career, Diane Lang’s first book Baby Steps: the Path from Motherhood to Career, was introduced last year. Baby Steps helps women sort through the thinking and second-guessing that accompanies returning to the workforce, and stresses striving for balance, health and happiness rather than “having it all.” As a speaker, Lang presents her workshop “The Mom Series” in NY metro area locations, to assist mothers returning to work. Additionally, Lang is a regular contributor to working mother and parenthood blogs such as MomsontheMove.com and MommyTalk.com. Alongside her work in the motherhood-career forum, Lang works as an Adjunct Professor in Psychology at Montclair State University and Centenary College. She also serves as co-host and guest expert on the Expat radio show, a global radio show for and about expatriates, discussing topics such as the stress of moving abroad. Lang made her debut as a therapist for ourprisoner.com, a reality based Internet show, where she held weekly sessions with the “prisoner” dealing with identity, insecurity and emotional abuse issues. Her other on camera credits include Host for Generation X-tinct, Absolute Fitness and various educational videos. A Mother to six year-old daughter Lauren, Lang’s academic credentials include an M.A. in Counseling and a B.A. in Liberal Arts from the New York Institute of Technology. |
Balancing Act
Learn New Strategies to Achieve Zen in Parenting
Paramus, NJ – Positive parenting gurus, Diane Lang and Tracey T. Serebin are holding a workshop on September 14th, at The Valley Hospital in Paramus, NJ to discuss the importance of staying balanced personally: while parenting.
The focus of the workshop is on Zen Parenting: “Life can be a juggling act, even more so with children. It is important to find the calm amidst the chaos and set aside quality time for your family and yourself.”
In this seminar, Tracey and Diane explore strategies to help parents achieve balance on a daily basis, while keeping multiple balls in the air.
Both women are parents, speakers and motivational authors. Diane’s inspiring voice has been published in "Babysteps: The Path from Motherhood to Career.” Her next book, A Little Taste of Happiness- Simple Changes That Make a Difference is due to come out at the end of the year. Tracey T. Serebin has published two books, “101 Questions for Expectant Parents; Preserving Your Relationship through the Transition and “Searching for Inspiration in the Infertility Rollercoaster”.
This workshop teaches dedicated parents the act of balancing parenting, career and inner happiness by taking control of the household and creating a much more serene environment for both adults and children.
To sign up for the workshop - call Valley Hospital 201-291-6151 or email Diane Lang at Lifeline36@aol.com or Tracey T. Serebin at tracey.tt@verizon.net
About Diane Lang
Diane Lang is a metro city based Therapist, Career Counselor, Life Coach, and author of "Babysteps: The Path from Motherhood to Career.” She teaches families nationwide the benefits of keeping a positive household through her blog: http://myhappyblog.vox.com/ and through her "Positive Parenting Series” speaking engagements. You can read her bi-weekly column "The Working Mom" at Mommytalk.com or listen to her on The Expat Show on WTBQ 1110AM, a WABC affiliate radio station. Lang has been featured in the Daily Record and Cookie Magazine, seen on NJ 12 TV and the national television program “Fox & Friends”.
About Tracey T. Serebin
Tracey Serebin is a family Coach with more than 15 years experience working to empower kids and strengthen families. She is a family dynamics and communication specialist with her own practice, A Child's Voice, in New Jersey. She has published two books “101 Questions for Expectant Parents; Preserving Your Relationship through the Transition and “Searching for Inspiration in the Infertility Rollercoaster”. She hosts her own Radio Show entitled Family Matters on WebTalkRadio.net and is the Relationship Expert in Let's Talk Baby.
Back to School for Working Moms
It’s back to school time again and as a working mom, it’s always a struggle to get myself and my kids ready for school. Here are some tips to start the school year off right and keeping them on track.
* Start the day off right with a healthy breakfast – The morning time is very busy in most households. Trying to get the kids ready at the same time you need to get ready for work can seem almost impossible on some mornings. But if you can get thru one thing in the morning it should be a healthy breakfast for both you and your family. Breakfast is so important: It helps the kids focus and concentrate well in class. Here are some easy, quick breakfast suggestions:
Cereal and fruit – My daughter loves cheerios with blueberries and strawberries on top.
Multi-Grain or whole wheat toast with peanut butter or
Apple and/or Banana with peanut butter – the peanut butter will help them remain full for the morning.
Make a fruit salad on Sunday evening and in the morning give a bowl of fruit salad with a yogurt on the side or some kids love taking the yogurt and mixing the fruit in.
The non-traditional breakfast – any leftovers in your fridge? Have any leftover with a glass of fruit juice. It’s not the norm but we do know that any breakfast is better then NO breakfast!!
* Contact – Stay in contact with your teacher. The quick, easy way is thru e-mail and most teachers will check their e-mail every day and respond quickly. I have my daughter’s teacher’s e-mail in my address book and the school website as one of my favorites. The school website always posts all the news, events and weather issues. It’s a good way to stay involved and connected. Involved parents mean a successful child.
*Sleep – A week or so before school starts, get your kids back on schedule. If kids don’t get enough sleep their academic careers will suffer. Mom’s we need sleep too – we should all try for 8-10 hours. The norm for most adults is 5-6 hours, that is not good enough and we will pay the price by being fatigued, irritable and eating unhealthy. So, moms get back on routine with your children by going to sleep early. Try to go to sleep around the same time every night and waking up around the same time every morning to keep your body on a good sleep schedule. Make sleep and a nutritious breakfast “A Must” for the whole family. If you keep a healthy lifestyle as a mom – you will be a great role model for your kids
*Physical Activity – This is so necessary for children. They need to burn fuel during the day to help keep them healthy. Obesity has become a HUGE problem for teens. Kids do not get enough physical activity at school – as moms, we must do more. As adults we tend to live a sedentary life especially if we have a job where we sit all day. So, set up family activities that involve exercise. In the warm weather – Biking, swimming , hiking, walking, etc. As the months get colder try apple and pumpkin picking. Join your local gym, college or YMCA for the inside pool. Sign up your children for an after school activity or sport. It’s a good way for the kids to socialize, have fun, meet new friends and get healthy!
*Set up a Homework schedule. Make it the same time everyday. My daughter does her homework for 30 -45 minutes a day right before dinner at the kitchen table. I cook while she does her homework. If she has any questions, I’m right there to help her and keep an eye on her.
*Good Habits – I have made reading a nightly habit. About 15-20 minutes before bed – we read together. It’s a good way to relax before bed, spend quality time and keep up with her reading skills. I’m starting the reading habit early (Pre-school) so when she is older she will continue to read before bed. Reading is a great end to the day – it helps with creativity, imagination, language skills, problem solving, memory, focus, and attention. If you start young, you will start a bedtime ritual that could go on for many years to come.
Have a great school year!!
Any questions/comments – Please contact: Diane Lang at Lifeline36@aol.com or www.dlcounseling.com
For the Parent - Parents building better relations with their kids
1. To build a positive relationship with your child you need to invest quality time and attention to your child
2. Know your child’s interests, strengths, hobbies and dislikes. With this type of information, you can have fun with your child by finding activities they are interested in and enjoy. This also shows a respect for the child’s interests. It shows that the parent is concerned with their child’s interests. It allows for freedom for the child to grow. It allows for the child to develop independence, their own opinions, thoughts and interests. It helps them develop a sense of self and their own identity. This will help build up their self-esteem.
3. Parents need to say “I love you” everyday no matter what age. Especially on trying days when you might not feel like saying it. This will help develop and strengthen the relationship.
4. For young kids, having a bedtime ritual will mean a lot to the child. It will be a time that the child can look forward to for one on one time. This can be a time for reading a book together, playing a game, doing a puzzle, etc. This ritual can stay straight thru till their teenagers.
I have had teenagers tell me they still enjoy playing cards or doing a puzzle with their parents before bed, they look forward to it. This ritual helps form a good connection between the parent an child.
5. Let your kids help you with daily activities like going food shopping, writing the food list, cooking, gardening, etc. This is bonding time.
6. Dinner time - eat meals together as much as possible. These meals should be with no external noises such as TV, Radio, Computers, cell phones, etc. This should be the time when everyone gets to discuss their day and really listen to each other. It’s a great way to reconnect. It’s Quality time.
7. Set special times that are “Family time” - days that are set aside just for family. Also, set aside special time with each child. Every child wants to feel special and by spending one on one time will allow the child to have that special quality time. The family should plan the activities.
8. Respect - as children get older, they start making their own choices. We as parents need to learn to respect most of their choices. We might not like their choice in clothing or music but if we don’t allow them to make their own decisions then we hinder their independence and growth. It’s a natural part of their development process to want to grow, learn and make decisions on their own. Try to be supportive of their decisions/choices.
|
Procrastination:
We are all guilty of it at one time or another but if you realize that you are procrastinating more often then you are getting things done, then it is time to work on it. Procrastination is the avoidance of getting a task accomplished. Procrastination can lead to feelings of guilt, self doubt, depression and can lead to chronic procrastination.
Why we procrastinate?
1. Poor time management skills. Are you uncertain of your goals or priorities? Are you overwhelmed? Are you taking on more then you can or are you afraid to say “ NO” ?
When you are overwhelmed or managing not managing your time wisely it’s easy for you to put off tasks for a later date or spending time doing things are not a priority.
2. Do you have difficulty focusing? When you sit down to do work or study, do you find yourself day dreaming? Falling asleep, watching TV, etc?
Is it that your environment is noisy? Is your desk cluttered or disorganized? Are you laying in your bed while studying?
3. Fear/ anxiety - Are you afraid of failure? Rejection or success? Do you spend more time on worrying or asking what if?
4. Low self - esteem - Are you constantly thinking negative beliefs or thought such as: I’m a failure, I can’t succeed in anything or I’m stupid? The negativity ca stop you from getting things done.
5. Personal problems - Example: Break up or divorce, financial difficulties, problems with friends or families.
6. Unrealistic expectations or Perfectionism - Do you believe you have to do everything 100% are you being realistic. Example are you taking too many classes at school while working a full time job?
How to over come procrastination
1. After reading thru the reasons, be honest and ask yourself the questions from above? Recognize out your reasons why?
2.Figure out your short term goals - goals for now till 6 mths to a year.
3. Write down your long term goals - where do you see yourself in three years, five years?
4. Write a action plan for your short term goals that can be revised every time a goal is completed.
5. Set priorities.
6. Use a to do list. Write one for everyday and cross off as accomplish tasks.
7.Mke sure your goals are realistic
8. Modify your environment. Eliminate noise distractions - shut the phone, cell phones, TV and radios off. Make sure you have plenty of light. Have necessary equipment at hand so you don’t have to get up to get pens, pencils, books, etc. Don’t get too comfortable when studying - don’t study in bed. Study in a chair at a desk. Organize your area so next time you go to study or do work - your area is prepared.
Positive reinforcement - Every time you complete your goals on your short term list or do well on a test or project, reward yourself. Make sure you know that you deserve it and show yourself by rewarding yourself.
I absolutely love this quote and needed to share it with everyone!
Don't give up, don't lose hope, don't sell out
Christopher Reeve
As a Therapist and Career counselor, I have seen firsthand how hard women are on themselves. I know, I'm my own worst critic. Moms are constantly asking themselves impossible questions: How can I be the best parent if I choose to work outside the home? Could I work part-time and have the best of both worlds? What will other people think of my choice?
Here's my advice: Don't let fear paralyze you! This is easier said then done but possible. Use the fear to guide you into making good decisions for you -Whether it's working outside the home, working from home, being a stay at home mom or working part-time. Women tend to get caught up in the notion that this is a decision they only have to make once, when in fact, your situation as well as your motivation to work outside the home may change as time goes by. No situation is ever set in stone.
So, how do you start to make the right decision for you? You start by taking a close, honest look at your motivation. Is going back to work NOW really right for you? Being a mom is a full time job. Moms work 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. You already have a lot of responsibility. Are you ready for more?
Then ask yourself this: Do I want a job or a career? There is a huge difference between the two. A job can bring you a paycheck and benefits. A career, on the other hand is something you feel passionate about, something that creates a purpose and happiness in your life. You also have to consider how the job or career will fit into your already full life. No matter what you choose, it must align with your values. Consider how many hours you want to work, whether you'll be able to take time off for your child's illness or special events at school. Only by evaluating whats important to you will you be able to find work that brings you real job satisfaction.
Next and this is a big one. You must consider if your decision is financially feasible? Going back to work might not put more moeny in your pocket. How is that possible? Well, for starters, do you have to pay for daycare? That is a very expensive investment. What about travel costs? Wardrobe? Costs on maintaining your car? There are also "incidental expenses" such as birthday presents, babys showers, lunches out, etc. These commitments could take a significant chunk out of your paycheck, will you still be ahead?
If you decide going back to work is right for you, then give yourself a break. The first few weeks and months will be very hard emotionally. You might feel sad, angry, guilty and overwhelmed. Your kids might feel hurt and resentful. Your husband might be confused and fearful of change. Your decision affects everyone.
Of 100 moms surveyed, almost all agreed that guilt was the strongest emotion they felt their first few weeks back. It was the guilt of leaving the kids, the guilt of having less family time and the guilt of missing special events. If you are feeling guilty ask yourself the following questions:
1. Is the guilt your guilt or imposed on you by your family?
2. How is your family feeling about your job? Did you speak to them about why you choose to go back to work? They might just be feeling confused or out of the loop about your decision.
3. Are you communicating to your family about how happy you are with your new job?
4. Have you set up a schedule of your hours at your job? All events/activities that are going on for the kids and who will be driving? This will help allevaite some confusion.
5. Are you setting aside quality time to spend with your family? This will give the whole family something to look forward to.
It is natural for you and your family to have mixed emotions about going back to work. The one thing all moms agree on: It gets better with time. You will learn to balance your schedules, your family will see your happiness and you will develop a routine. Just give yourself time. Be realistic. It will take time and patience. You might also change your mind and realize working outside the home isn't right for you but you need time to make the adjustment before you make any decisions.
Going back to work is a huge life transition. You are making a lifestyle change that affects not only you but your family as well. It is easy to focus on everyone else and forget yourself. However, it is important to take care of your physical, emotional and spirtual well being also. Always consider how you are feeling and always take time for yourself.
There is a lot to consider the first few months back at work. Keep a journal of how you are feeling. Try to write in it daily. Writing is a good stress reliever and putting words down on paper helps you sort through your emotions.
After a month, looking back thru the journal. What did you notice? Is your guilt and confusion fading? Are you enjoying your new work environment? Do you like being outside the home? Are you resentful of moms who stay at home? You will be better able to make a judgement call about your life by reading your journal. Then you'll be better equipped to make adjustments, if needed.
The Book: Baby Steps the path from Motherhood to Career - moms reentering the workforce can be found at amazon.com or Kendallhunt.com or 1-800-228-0810
|
|
|
|
Tubby Tots: the Growing Epidemic of Childhood Obesity
Obesity in youth is considered the major health challenge for the 21st century. According to the American Obesity Association, 30.3% of American children (ages 6-11) are overweight and 15.3% are obese. In adolescents (ages 12-19), 30.4% are overweight and 15.5% are obese. An obese adolescent has a 70% chance of becoming an obese adult. Obesity carries an increase in many health risks such as diabetes, asthma and sleep apnea.
The reasons for this growing trend are many. Authorities cite reduced physical activity as the primary cause of this growing epidemic, but they also blame high-calorie/fat foods, eating too much, and little access to fresh fruits and vegetables in low income communities (where obesity rates tend to be highest).
While more time in front of the television or computer certainly are not calorie-burning activities, many children and adults who are active and “eat right” still have problems keeping their weight down. In these cases, heredity is often blamed. But the reality is that obese sedentary children of today are much fatter than their counterparts of 30 years ago. When it comes to food consumption, many experts overlook food quality and habits.
Convenience foods & the microwave
The pressures of modern society often lead us to depend on quick and easy ways to put food on the table. Unfortunately, this usually means resorting to processed options (typically frozen, boxed or canned), which are devoid of nutrients and loaded with all sorts of chemicals from pesticides to
ingredients like trisodium phosphate which no home cook would ever use or even know where to find. Soy, a common ingredient in food processing, is a potent thyroid hormone inhibitor and contains phytoestrogens both of which have been linked to weight gain.
Microwaves, which heat food from the inside out, destroy greater amounts of nutrients than traditional cooking methods. They also alter the chemical structure of foods so that they cannot be properly utilized by the body. Microwaving in plastic leaches estrogens and other chemicals found in plastic migrate into the microwaved food. This combination of chemicals and estrogen's can also lead to increased body mass.
Breakfast, dessert & snacks
Skipping breakfast is a double whammy. It leads to eating more later on and, therefore, increased calorie consumption. Furthermore, while we can usually control the type of food we eat at breakfast, eating on the fly usually results in consuming sugary, highly processed foods – the very foods that cause weight gain. On the other hand, studies show that children and adolescents who eat breakfast weigh less and perform better in school.
What we eat at the start of the day is just as important as what we don’t eat at the end of the day. There is no need to eat dessert daily. This is especially true for children who cannot distinguish between the foods they need to eat and those to which they have developed addictions. If you feel the need to eat something sweet after a meal, make it a piece of fruit, not cakes or cookies.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends feeding children five times per day: three meals and two snacks. In my opinion, having snacks built in to a child’s daily routine teaches him to expect food at any time of day, whether or not he is hungry. In high school, a child who snacks will be more likely to patronize vending machines and fast-food establishments. When children eat sufficient amounts of the traditional, whole foods at mealtime, snacks are rarely needed.
Low-fat usually means low quality
Upon closer examination of the AAP’s recommendations, it becomes clear that the reason for the two additional meals is because the three recommended main meals are almost completely comprised of carbohydrates. A breakfast of low-fat milk, fortified cereal, juice, toast, jelly and margarine (not a real fat so it effects the body more like a sugar) will surely send your little one searching for food before lunchtime since they don’t provide sustained satiety. The AAP’s aim is to reduce caloric intake by reducing fat since fat contains nine calories per gram whereas carbohydrate and protein contain four calories per gram thus theoretically contributing to less weight gain. But this approach may not be as effective as it seems. A recent study showed that skim and low-fat milk lead to increased milk consumption and significant weight gain in nearly 13,000 children studied. Full fat milk did not.
Be aware that low-fat foods are significantly higher in refined carbohydrate than their full fat counterparts. This is because once the naturally occurring fat is removed, the percentage of carbohydrate naturally increases and because more sugar is frequently added to these products to improve the flavor. When more carbohydrate is consumed than the body needs, it is stored as fat. Note that low fat foods are also loaded with chemicals and other flavor enhancers. Many of these ingredients cause weight gain and make it harder to lose weight as they are stored in fat tissue in the body’s attempt to protect itself from these poisons.
So which fats are safe?
Contrary to popular belief, real fats like those found in non-hydrogenated and unprocessed animal products and tropical oils (coconut and palm oil) do not readily cause weight gain. In animal fats, this is particularly true when the animals are raised on grass, not grain. Saturated (yes, saturated!) fats and oils nourish the brain and spinal cord, are essential for mucous membrane health and are a vital component to every cell in the body. They also prevent constipation. The steady decrease in consumption of these fats has an correlates with the increased incidence of emotional and hyperactivity disorders, asthma, heart disease and obesity.
Fats that do contribute to weight gain are those that are typically found in processed foods. These are the same highly refined vegetable oils, margarines and shortenings that line supermarket shelves. The increased consumption of these cheaply made products, which are actually rancid, has paralleled the rise in several modern health scourges including diabetes, cancer, heart disease and obesity.
Steps to reducing obesity
The key to avoiding obesity in children (and adults) is to focus on the whole foods consumed by our grandparents. These foods were prepared from fresh ingredients with care on the stove or in a traditional oven in home kitchens. Food was consumed three times per day with snacks and desserts only occasionally served. Skipping breakfast was not an option. Finally, meats and dairy were eaten with their fat intact. Our grandparents knew that these natural fats would add flavor to the meal and satisfy hungry appetites until the next one
Adrienne Hew is a certified Nutritionist who lives in New Jersey. Please visit Adrienne's Website for more information: http://whatyourbabyneeds.com
Adrienne is available for phone consultations.
My Groups
-
Positive Parenting Updated: Sep 28, 2009
Neighborhood
Explore friends, family, friends & family, or entire neighborhood.
Recent Comments
-
The Coffee Guy said:
DianeMy best freind's daughter designed a Gratitude Stick some years ago. http://bananamoon.ca/ViewItem.asp?ID=53&CAT=7 They now have a whole line of gratitude... read more
on The Simple Life -
Diane Lang said:
John Hi! Thank you for coming, it was very nice to meet you and your wife. When you get a... read more
on Procrastination -
John Luciano said:
[this is good]Hi Diane, My wife Ruby and I just saw your seminar on happiness at the Jefferson Township Library in New... read more
on Procrastination -
Simone Bittencourt Shauy said:
[this is good]These 25 things should make part of our DNAs. They are so simple, low cost, have the power of bringing... read more
on Making the world a Better Place
Links
My website with information on my workshops.
Thanks I will check this site out!! read more
on The Simple Life