We live in a world that glamorizes the conventional lifestyle paradigm, promoting it as a source of genuine happiness and well-being. Consequently, guiding our kids to consume whole foods while minimizing sugar, oils, and ultra-processed ingredients poses a significant challenge that can be overwhelming for parents. In my belief and experience, it is preferable for a parent to feel overwhelmed while teaching their kids to eat healthy whole foods, rather than the alternative—having our kids feel overwhelmed, fatigued, anxious, and unable to function due to an unhealthy diet.

A simple Google search of ingredients can be a helpful tool for both parents and kids to understand what the ingredients are and how they contribute to or detract from overall health. Children who struggle to function at a young age due to an unhealthy diet are likely to face ongoing challenges with their health, making it harder to regain and maintain well-being.

The information needed for making healthy choices is readily available. Contrary to the notion that the younger generation handles the conventional lifestyle better than the older generation, evidence suggests otherwise. The perspective that moderation is acceptable and that aging inevitably leads to fatigue, chronic inflammation, debilitation, and immobility is inaccurate. The key factor lies in the environment we create for ourselves.

Moderation becomes elusive if we don’t pay attention to labels and unknowingly consume ultra-processed foods while neglecting healthy lifestyle choices. As a parent, I feel it is my responsibility to live the lifestyle I wish to model for my daughter. Therefore, Nicole and I are collaborating with Aria to develop enjoyable exercise routines, share healthy recipes, and promote lifestyle practices for the benefit of the youth.