One Chic Mama: 6 Tips for Moms to Encourage Healthy Living

Yes, mom, even you need to be reminded to floss every once in a while. We’re so busy keeping everyone else on track that we sometimes slip up ourselves. Here are a few things we can do each day to help encourage healthy living.

1. Wear sunscreen – I can’t stress this one enough. Sure, during the summer it is of vital importance to help prevent against a very obvious sunburn, which in turn increases our risk of skin cancer as well as premature aging. But remember that you also need to use it on cloudy days as we go into fall as well. SPF of 15 or higher is recommended for your face, hands, arms and wherever else your skin is exposed to the sun’s rays.
2. Keep Immunization Records Current – You do it for your children; do you even think about it for yourself or your husband? Help protect your family by staying current on chicken-pox, flu and other vaccinations. You don’t want any surprises!
3. Floss Your Teeth - Yes, we know it’s not your favorite thing to do. But it does help to prevent gum disease and keeps decay-causing plaque at bay. Preventing gum disease can also prevent pre-term delivery in pregnant women.
4. Perform Breast Self-Exams – These are so important for early detection of cancer. Put a note up in the shower or on your bathroom mirror to remind you to make this painless exam part of your routine.
5. Add Strength Training to Your Workouts – It boosts your metabolism and helps fight against bone loss as you age. It also makes everyday activities, such as lifting your kids, a little easier. It also helps to prevent injury.
6. Eat Your Veggies - You know they’re good for you, but did you know that eating 5 – 9 servings of fruit and vegetables is the recommended daily allowance of the American Cancer Society? Fruits and veggies are full of antioxidants, they are low in fat and calories and high in fiber. Plus, when you eat them at the peak of freshness, they are hard to beat!