Brandi Chastain's 5 Healthy Habits for Busy Families

(NewsUSA) - For many families, school means routines and maintaining busy schedules that keep the entire family on the go -- especially those families who are juggling school as well as extracurricular activities and sports. That's why it's particularly important to take the right steps, beginning with a few healthy habits that will carry them through not only the school year, but for a lifetime.

It's easy to get started. For children to adopt healthy routines, many experts agree that the whole family needs to be involved. Brandi Chastain, Olympic and world soccer champion, mom and mentor says, "To keep my family on track, I like to incorporate a few simple rules for healthy living into our busy lives," she adds.

1. Hydrate to perform great. Kids should drink water before, during and after exercise. While exercise generates heat and increases the body's core temperature, water works to bring body temperature back to the normal 98.6 F. Let your child pick out a colorful water bottle to make drinking water fun.

2. Always make time for healthy meals. The USDA says that half our plates should be filled with colorful fruits and veggies, but when your children are constantly running from school to practice and back, it can be tough to get them to eat that perfect meal. Add Libby's Single Fruit Cups, which contain one complete serving of fruit, to your children's bags for an easy and nutritious snack.

3. Sleep is important. Children should receive an average of eight to nine hours of sleep each night. Without enough sleep children will not perform to their full potential during school, practice or games. Help your children stick to a regular sleep schedule by making bedtime fun -- read them a story or sing a song while they fall asleep.

4. Turn exercise into a family affair. When exercising is a solo act, it can sometimes feel like a chore. Bring the whole family onboard and make exercising fun, family time. Join your kids in a game of soccer, Double Dutch or kickball.

5. Lead by example. When you set a good example, your kids are more likely to follow. Although it's easy to stop at the drive-thru on the way home from practice, make an effort to eat well and live a healthy lifestyle. Become a role model by exercising regularly and eating healthy foods, like Libby's Fruits and Vegetables, with your children. It's easier when you make it a team effort.

To learn more about healthy eating habits, and for easy weeknight recipes, visit www.getbacktothetable.com.

"Article By: NewsUSA"