New Year's Health Resolutions for Families

**Note: the following advice comes solely from the writer's personal experience. The writer is not a paid health professional or employee of any health-related organization, and does not have a college degree specializing in any health-related field.

With 2010 in full swing, countless families and parents nationwide are preparing for the many challenges that will await them in the New Year: paying bills and earning income in a troubled economy, maintaining their children's education, carving time out of the week to spend together as a family and dozens of other tasks and responsibilities.

And what about health? How was your family's health in 2009? Would you change anything going into 2010? Here are a few healthy New Year's resolutions you might consider for your family:

1. Commit to Eating Out Less, Especially Fast Food

This is a no-brainer. While fast food on the go is a quick, simple and easy solution on a hectic day, its high fat and cholesterol levels can wreak havoc on our bodies. This year, make it a point to avoid eating out less. Instead, take the time to pack a healthy sack lunch and eat it on the road. Even eating a sandwich, small serving of potato chips and a piece of fruit (apple or banana) or container of yogurt is significantly healthier than devouring a greasy MacDonald's Big Mac® and large fry or a stack of Taco Bell® burritos. A Ziploc bag of carrots, grapes and/or mixed nuts also make for healthier snacks on-the-go.

2. Find Fun, Creative and Innovative Ways to Exercise as a Family

This will require some thought and personal creativity on your part, but the benefits will far outweigh any tough thinking you may have to endure.

If you have smaller children, schedule an outing at a local playground or park. Encourage your children to climb on the monkey bars, run around and enjoy the beauty of a day spent outdoors in the sun. Be certain you keep an eye on the temperature-smaller children should not play for extended periods of time on a scorching hot day. It is also a good idea to pack plenty of water and even a healthy lunch. Typically, bringing a cooler or ice chest with water, fruit and even lunch boxes is the best way to go.

If you have older children, invest time and money into a neighborhood bike ride. This is a great way for your family to exercise together and have some fun at the same time. No bikes? No worries. You can always scour your local pawn shops and thrift stores for used and discount bikes. Be certain you know what to look for in terms of finding a bike in good condition or that you are prepared to fix it up if necessary. Either way, the cost of a used bike and subsequent repairs will typically outweigh the amount spent on a brand new, store bought bicycle.

If you live in a safe neighborhood, go for a few laps around the block as a family. Walking is a great form of aerobic exercise and has been proven to reduce the risk of several diseases, maintain heart health, reduce stress, aid in nighttime sleep and rest and increase chances for weight loss.

3. Engage in Personal Hobbies, Playtime and Family Time with your Children

Countless child psychology studies have shown early parental boding and affection to be an essential element in a child's overall emotional wellbeing. The more a child knows he/she is loved and valued, the more likely he/she is to remain mentally and emotionally healthy. Discover your child's interests and passions and seek out activities that cater to those interests. Whether it is a sport or a simple board game, engage in the activity as a family and spend some quality time together. The memories you create will last a lifetime and will keep your family living emotionally healthier and longer lives.

So why not make 2010 the best and healthiest year your family could possibly have? Bear in mind much of the aforementioned and see what kind of results you get. You just may wind up losing weight and bonding as a family at the same time!