'' THEE QUEST "

When Pierrette & I started losing our weight we asked a lot of questions and made many observations. We kept seeing kids that were obese and just could not get them out of our head. Why would parents let their kids become obese? In today’s fast paced lifestyle many parents just don’t stop. Family night’s for supper does not mean that we all sit at the table at the same time.

We just do not see the children. When you realize you are obese, look around you, most people are obese too. Here is an article I wrote trying to let people know that they are affecting the children around them and what you can do about it.

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To understand childhood obesity you need to know some of the basics. Many of you are confused with all the information available as to what do I do to help my children not become obese. I read lately that you should have them start weight training as early as possible? Others claim that it takes a minimum of 60 minutes exercise everyday or else? Get them to eat this healthy meal instead of fast food? If your on a tight budget, which many are these days, the cost of food should not matter. After all they are “your” children? Who do you believe?. Who can you trust? Here are 4 ways you can help yourself help your kids.

1. Believe in your feelings and judgment. Before you decide to apply anyone method do your research and believe that your gut feeling will help you more than anyone else. You decide what’s best for your children and feel good about your abilities to be a good parent.
2. Let your kids be kids. If people around you tell you that they should start everything earlier, listen to your inner feelings and if the kids are having fun, well their you go, that’s what it’s all about. They need to love what they eat. Always stay positive and teach them what’s good for them only if you believe in what you are saying. Keep having fun, their children not machines that need constant re-programing.
3. Read, read, read as much as you can. Read your food labels. Ask questions, no matter how stupid you think they might be. Ask your children’s teachers how they are really doing in school. Ask your doctor what all the information is about when you get results. Don’t ever leave your children’s health in someones hands.
4. If you don’t know, don’t do it. If you are not sure if a product you are feeding your children is healthy for them, be smart and stay away. Don’t let them put anything in their mouth if you are unsure. Kids will eat anything, even if it’s not good for them and they need you to take many of these decisions for them. You are their parent, not their friend. Remember that they need you to help them be kids as long as they can. You be the parent and let them enjoy their childhood.

Does all this seem simple enough? Food for thought.

Pierre William Trudel

Thee Quest