Im not sure why I was so surprised to see the cover of Time magazine… I mean, we all know that obesity is one of the top killers of Americans… we know that each generation is producing heavier and heavier children. Still, you must admit, there is something very in-your-face about the cover of Time magazine.

The article (and countless studies) went on to detail the various factors to blame… increased portion sizes, trans-fats, and parents failing to teach proper eating and healthy lifestyle tips to their children.

It doesn’t take a scientist to recognize that there is a dangerous trend at work. I believe that most parents with overweight children are aware of the dangers, but are lacking easy solution on how to adapt a change. Let’s face it, parenting is tough work, having to gingely coach a child into exercising and eating right, on top of the other 1,000 challenges just makes an already challenging job that much tougher.

One proven solution is to be a positive role model. Many published studies show that overweight parents are more than 100% more likely to have overweight children than their fit-an-trim counterparts. Again, this really makes sense- a child grows up seeing the importance of exercise, watching their mom and dad make time for the gym, selecting healthier options. Exercise can (and should be) a family acitivity. Healthy cooking can be a part of an everyday lifestyle. At elements and BalanceD, few of our clients initially realize that hiring a personal trainer or a diet coach can also be a true benefit to their families, they generally will begin coaching or a weight loss program for a personal solution. While this is great, it is a true bonus in my opinion when that knowledge is shared to create a healthy lifestyle for the family. Our lifestyle coaches make shopping lists, suggest recipes, and can even adapt your family’s favorites into a lighter version. Parents making better food and cooking choices makes for a healthier (and slimmer) family. What more compelling reason could their be to begin a wellness program today?