Kickin’ It with Author and Blogger Erinn Sluka!

by Cascade Ice on July 9, 2015

Why is “Healthy Living” important to you? 

I have 3 boys ages 7-23 and it is important to me that they stay active and at their best and that my husband and I do as well so we can keep up with these busy boys. With many genetic factors in our family from diabetes, cancer and heart disease I want to protect my boys as best as possible by not only eating healthy, but teaching them to make healthier choices on their own.

Who are your “Healthy Living” role models and why?

I actually do not have any one health role model. I think as health as all-inclusive from being happy, active and eating healthy. I work to have a healthy budget, healthy marriage and healthy meals.

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

I always keep albacore (pole caught) or organic black beans and will do wraps in a pinch. I also always keep fresh Pico full of veggies and will add it to sandwiches, wraps or salads.

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

Teach your kids and lead by example! The best way to learn to eat healthy is to learn labels! You can google articles that help you learn to dissect a food label. It is so important to know what is in your food and the effects of what your family is consuming. I don’t ever read the front labeling-I turn the item over to the ingredient list. Even my boys will be caught turning a box over and looking up sugars and calorie numbers.

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

I won’t take away the treat aspect with my kids. However, if I don’t buy it, they can’t eat it. My son LOVES Doritos so if he is due for a special treat, I will buy him a snack size bag and not the large bag that will sit in my cupboard and be consumed for days. I use moderation, not elimination.

In addition to eating right, do you have any other tips to share on overall wellness (i.e. sleep, relaxation techniques, fitness routines)?

We are very family-oriented. We work to keep the boys learning over the summer, spending a lot of time with extended family. We also have bedtimes that are structured so our youngest gets the sleep he needs.

What is your favorite Cascade Ice flavor and why?

I love the lemonades-Raspberry and Strawberry Lemonade. They are so refreshing!

To see more of Erinn’s tips, you can visit her blog at  http://www.parentinghealthy.com/. Connect with Erinn on Twitter and Facebook, and check out her book, Love Should Not Hurt: Letting Go of the Pain to Live in Freedom.