No Sick Days?

My kids received recognition this year for not having missed a day of school!  I, of course, was very proud.  I didn't even think about the reaction from teachers and other parents....."how did you do this?" they asked.  2 kids, public school, not sick once?

I can't claim that any of the information below is "scientific".  But I'd like to think the choices I am making in regards to their food and lifestyle are having an effect on their health and learning.

1.  Lots of fruits and vegetables.  My kids eat a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables and very little processed food.  Instead of Goldfish crackers and fruit leather, it's nuts, fresh fruit, or smoothies.

2. Easy on the sugar.  Treats are for special occasions only and no fruit juice.

3.  Yogurt everyday.  This is the big one. I am convinced the probiotics they get everyday are helping their immunity.

4.  No flu shot.  I have immunized my children with other shots, but they do not get flu shots.  

5.  Lots of exercise and activity.  My kids are active in some sports, but I also make sure they get plenty of exercise everyday.  We walk to and from school; if it's not raining, we are outside!

6.  Omega Fatty Acids.  I give them a fatty acid supplement, but they also eat a lot of avocado, chia seeds, flax seed, coconut oil, olive oil, and fish occasionally.

7.  Easy on the meat.  I am vegetarian, but my children do eat meat.  We do meatless Mondays in our house, and I make a conscious effort to limit their dairy intake (i.e. they drink almond milk) and to balance their meat intake.  If I know we are having meat for dinner, I opt for a vegetarian lunch.  If we have deli sandwiches for lunch, I might fix homemade macaroni and cheese for dinner.

I hope you find these tips helpful and that you might incorporate a few into your daily routine with your children.  These little changes can be huge for them in terms of their daily habits now....and when they grow up.

If you like what you're reading, I invite you to follow my blog.  Cheers!