7 Practical Ways To Keep Your Teenager Healthy

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Raising a teenager can be fulfilling, with lots of precious memories. However, it’s not an easy feat. While thinking about various aspects of their lives, their health is most likely part of the top things on your list as a parent. Though your child may look healthy, it is critical to instill healthy habits that will stay with them throughout their life. These habits will keep them mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, and physically healthy. According to research, 75% of teens do not get the recommended daily exercise needed to maintain physical health. If you have been looking for practical ways to help your teen stay healthy, here are some tips worth exploring. 

1. Focus on mental health 

A healthy mind produces a healthy body. When your teenager is mentally happy, they feel happier and eager to engage in physical activities. They are also likely to have strong and loving relationships. That is why it is essential to inspire them to share their feelings by creating a safe environment. You can make time to ask them about their day. When there is conflict, acknowledge and understand their emotions and find healthy ways to resolve the issue. Paying attention to them will help you identify any mental health issues, so you can take them to a professional as soon as possible. 

Professional help can help them overcome these challenges before they develop into adulthood. The good thing is that there are lots of options to choose from. For instance, you can book an appointment with a psychologist, school counselor, occupational therapist, social worker, or psychiatrist. If your teen has trepidations about one-on-one meetings with these professionals, online teen counseling programs also exist. However, it doesn’t end here; several schools that cater to teen’s academic prowess and mental wellness are springing up. For instance, you can evaluate Eva Carlston reviews if you need an academic institution for your teenage girl with anxiety. 

2. Urge them to be active 

An active lifestyle is crucial for a healthy and quality life. It is common for teens to spend their time playing video games or texting their friends. A sedentary lifestyle can cause health problems like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and sleep issues. To motivate your teenager to be physically active, you must lead by example. Watching you maintain a routine will encourage them to exercise, and inviting them to join you will be easier. You can also encourage them to join sports teams in school so they can find new friends. If your teen is still reluctant to stay fit, you can make things fun through activities like family dance-offs, hiking trips, and swimming. 

3. Maintain a balanced diet 

Your teenager's body is going through major changes. Besides an increased appetite, their bodies require sufficient nutrients too. Healthy eating habits will help ensure they get the necessary nutrients and avoid diseases. Encourage your teen to cut down on junk food, carbonated drinks, and caffeine. Include fruits and vegetables in their diet. For teenage girls who have started menstruation, consuming whole grain cereals and green leafy vegetables will provide their bodies with iron.

4. Educate them on the effects of bad habits 

It's no secret that teenagers can be curious and experimental. They can be easily influenced by peer pressure to pick up habits like smoking, drinking alcohol, and unsafe sexual practices. Teen vaping is prevalent, and while it may seem less dangerous, it also contains nicotine, which can be harmful. Please help your child understand that habits like smoking can cause lung disease and guide them to develop strategies to avoid temptation. Warn them about the dangers of alcohol and drunk driving if they are of legal age. You can also find out if they are sexually active. Give them adequate education and ask them to use protection if they are. 

5. Ensure timely medical check-ups 

Yearly or monthly medical check-ups with the best pediatricians ensure your child's long-term health. If there is a history of medical conditions in your family, a checkup or screening test will help you to put preventive measures in place or detect any health issues early. You can also take an opportunity to update immunizations. Vaccinations like the flu shot, HPV vaccines, and MMR vaccines protect your child when they are in public. If you skipped any of their childhood vaccinations, you could still get them, but seek medical advice first. 

6. Encourage good sleep habits 

Teens need a lot of sleep to help develop their brains and grow well. According to scientific research, you need eight to ten hours of sleep to stay healthy. Inadequate sleep, or the lack of it, can lead to learning problems, depression, or irritability. Encourage your child to get more rest after a long day at school. Let them know that caffeine is bad for their sleeping cycle and ask them to limit screen time before bed. You can also help them transform their bedroom into an oasis so they can feel relaxed whenever they are in there. 

7. Motivate them to have a social life 

Many young adults yearn to belong to a group during their teenage years. This could be the cool clique at school or a popular club. However, you must encourage them to develop the right relationships. Socially active teenagers enjoy mental and emotional health.