Kickin’ It With Parenting Blogger Susan Heim

by Cascade Ice on July 11, 2013

We are “Kickin’ It” with parenting blogger and author Susan Heim this week! Susan is an editor and co-author for the bestselling “Soup for the Soul” series. She also shares her thoughts and experiences on raising children in today’s world in her parenting blog. Read what she has to say about healthy living below!

Why is “healthy living” important to you?

It saddens me to see the rise in childhood obesity and related diseases. Overweight children usually become overweight adults. We need to teach our children to value physical fitness and sports, along with healthier eating and portion control, so that they can establish lifelong habits for healthy living.

Who are your “healthy living” role models and why?

I’ve always admired Jessica Alba. She created The Honest Company to create products that are non-toxic and healthy for kids. And she seems like a genuinely nice person and a great mom!

What is your go-to healthy meal when you are short on time?

Smoothies! We love to mix fresh fruit and yogurt in the blender for a delicious breakfast or lunch.

Do you have any tips for families who want to make some healthy lifestyle changes?

You don’t have to be a fitness fanatic or drastically change your diet. Introduce changes slowly so your family will accept them. And be sure that as parents, you’re setting a good example for your children by exercising and eating well, too.

Are there any foods that you consider to be off-limits completely?

No. I think the key is moderation and portion control. It’s too difficult for children to resist candy and fast food when their peers are eating them, but we can teach them how much they should eat and to value these items as occasional treats.

In addition to eating right, do you have any other tips to share on overall wellness?

Children need to be engaged in some sort of physical fitness, even if it’s just the family taking a walk together every day. The key is to get outdoors and get moving. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park in the back of the store parking lot and walk. Little changes can make a big difference.

What is your favorite Cascade Ice flavor and why?

My favorite is Coconut Cascade Ice Sparkling Water because I’m a coconut fanatic. I’ll eat or drink just about anything with coconut in it!

You can learn more about Susan by following her on Twitter or Facebook or by reading her blog, Susan Heim on Parenting.