The start of the new school year in Michigan brings with it a focus on improving heart health for students through free school meals and wellness programs. The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of establishing healthy habits early in life, as these habits can have a lasting impact on health behaviors in the future.
Parents and children are encouraged to prioritize a healthy diet, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, and monitoring key health indicators such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. By instilling these habits early on, children can set themselves up for a lifetime of good health.
In addition to healthy habits, the American Heart Association recommends that children follow a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources. With the support of state funding, all pre-K to 12th-grade students in Michigan have access to no-cost breakfast and lunch programs for the upcoming school year. This initiative aims to provide students with the nutrition they need to succeed both academically and physically.
Physical activity is another key component of heart health for children, with benefits including improved academic performance, attendance, and behavior. Despite the benefits of physical activity, only 20% of kids meet the recommended guidelines for daily activity. Encouraging children to engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity each day can have a positive impact on their overall well-being.
Parents can further support their children’s physical health by participating in the American Heart Association’s Kids Heart Challenge, which offers fun and engaging activities to get kids moving. By promoting physical activity and healthy eating habits at home and in school, parents and educators can help children develop lifelong habits that support heart health.
For those interested in bringing the American Heart Association’s programs to their children’s schools, more information is available on the organization’s website. By working together to prioritize heart health for children, we can help them lead longer, healthier lives now and in the future.