Are your kids picking up your unhealthy habits?

Ever wondered what effect your health is having on your child? As parents, our job is to educate and inspire our children to lead full and healthy lives. And one of the best ways to do that is to lead by example. By looking after your own physical health and mental wellbeing, your children stand the best chance of following in your footsteps. So, to mark Family Wellness Month this May, the health experts at YourGP explore how unhealthy habits can have a lasting impact on the next generation, and reveal ways you can embrace good health together as a family.

Delving into the data

Research by the University of London revealed 12.6% of children whose mothers had poor health suffered from poor health themselves, compared to just 2.2% of children whose mothers had very good health. What’s more, obese mothers were more than four times as likely as normal-weight or underweight mothers to have an obese child.

And studies indicate it’s not just the child’s physical health that can be affected. Research has shown children whose main carer had poor health were more than four times as likely to have a high level of behavioural difficulties compared to those with very healthy carers.

Furthermore, data from the Office for National Statistics suggests children of parents who had difficulties with their own mental health were more likely to have a mental disorder, when compared with children of parents who did not.

Whilst genetics and factors outwith a parent’s control can often play a key role in many health conditions, there are many health issues that can be prevented or reversed with some simple lifestyle changes. By adopting those healthy lifestyle habits together as a family, everyone benefits!

10 healthy habits to adopt as a family

1. Eat a balanced diet: Aim for a clean diet free of processed foods and high in fresh, seasonal fruit and vegetables. Get the kids involved preparing meals and setting the table, and use mealtimes as a time to come together, talk and connect.
2. Keep treats to a minimum: Be mindful of portion sizes and limit fatty, salty and sugary snacks.
3. Exercise regularly: Movement is so important for health, so head out and explore the great outdoors, or simply enjoy a kickabout in your back garden.
4. Manage your stress levels: Life is full of ups and downs but it’s our job as parents to help our children navigate them as best they can. Yoga and mindfulness can be helpful for all ages. And don’t forget that laughter is a great way to reduce stress levels, so go have fun together!
5. Get a good night’s sleep: Sleep is fundamental to good health, so create a nighttime routine for the whole family that involves time away from screens to enable the mind and body to start to unwind.
6. Don’t smoke: Children whose caregivers smoke are four times more likely to become smokers themselves. The health implications of smoking are serious and wide ranging – from heart disease, stroke and diabetes to cancer.
7. Be aware of your alcohol intake: The UK Chief Medical Officers recommend limiting alcohol intake to 14 units per week. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a variety of health problems, including impaired cognitive function, liver disease, cancer and cardiovascular problems.
8. Limit screentime: Too much time scrolling on phones, playing video games or watching TV has the potential to lead to physical inactivity, weight gain and obesity. It can also impact sleep quality and contribute to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. So set clear boundaries and time limits.
9. Look after yourself: Show your children how you prioritise your health by teaching them good hygiene habits and the importance of self-care.
10. Talk openly about physical and mental health: Whatever your age, you should never feel embarrassed about speaking to a doctor about any health concerns. Talking openly at home is a great way to break down stigma.

Appointments for all the family, right when you need us

Here at YourGP, we pride ourselves on providing a relaxed, welcoming environment where all patients, whatever their age or health concern, are made to feel comfortable. We provide short-notice appointments and a fast turnaround of test results so we can get your family back on the road to good health as soon as possible.

If you’re serious about prioritising the health of your family, why not join the YourGP membership scheme? Featuring four tiers, you can choose the level that fits your individual lifestyle. Each one offers a range of benefits including a 30% discount on GP consultations, guaranteed same day appointments, free repeat prescriptions, a health screening and more. What’s more, anyone with a Gold, Platinum or Black membership can add a child to their membership for just £49 per year so they too can enjoy the benefits.

To join the membership scheme at YourGP, call 0131 381 0322 or email reception@your.gp now. Alternatively, to book an appointment for you or any member of your family, you can use our simple online booking form.