Monthly Archives: October 2019

How about fitness trackers for kids? Fitness trackers for adults have been popular for some time. They can be a good way to measure activity, and may inspire some to move more. However, now the fitness tracker market is expanding to kids. While kids may thirst for new technology, be sure to discuss appropriate use and be on the lookout for signs of compulsive exercise. Here is what to consider before investing in fitness trackers for kids.

Fitness Trackers For Kids: 3 Things to Consider

1. Motivate Game-Oriented Kids. Kids who love video games and technology may be positively motivated by game like fitness trackers. They can foster a healthy competition with friends and set goals. Older kids tend to do better with fitness trackers.
2. Signs of Compulsive Exercise. For the already goal-oriented child or adult, fitness trackers might encourage compulsive exercise. If you do decide to get your child a fitness tracker, be aware for warning signs of compulsive exercise such as constant preoccupation with weight and exercise, skipping out on social activities to exercise, and feeling guilty when not able to exercise,
3. Meet in the Middle. If your child is really interested in fitness trackers, consider a simple app on your mobile device that counts steps. Kids do not need complicated apps that track food intake. If you decide to use an app or device that count steps, make it a family activity. This can be a great motivation for that after dinner walk or weekend hike. Monitoring your child’s use will also enable you to make sure they are using the app or device within reason.

Are you interested in moving more as a family but unsure of where to start? At KareBoost Health, our goal is to make a healthy life fit your needs and abilities. Contact us today to find out more.

Karen L. Leibowitz, MD
Health and Medical Coach
KareBoost Health

Naps are not just for kids anymore! Research shows that napping has healthy benefits for adults. If you fall short of 7-9 hours of sleep a night, feel cranky or irritated after lunch, or need lots of coffee to get throughout your day, napping could help you. Today, we will discuss the benefits of napping, and how you can start including a short nap into your busy day.

3 Healthy Reasons to Take Naps

1. Why. The benefits of napping can include increased alertness, better mood and improved memory. Sleeping more can help you be more productive at work and school- your brain needs rest in order to learn new skills and process all the information you receive during the day. While those benefits may seem intuitive, napping can also save you money. Improve the amount of sleep you get and spend less money of coffee and energy drinks.
2. How. The best time for a nap is around 3 pm. Nap too late, and it might affect your quality of sleep at night. Find a cool, quiet place to rest for about 20 minutes. Some forward-thinking workplaces are becoming attuned to the benefits of napping and even creating spaces for employees to nap. However, if you do not have that flexibility at the office, consider ducking out to your car for a quick break.
3. Plan It Out. Look at your calendar and find a time in the next week where you could fit a nap in. Plan where you can take a nap and mark it off in your calendar. Try to make napping a regular occurrence, especially if you do not get enough sleep at night.

If you are looking for more creative strategies to help you and your family eat better, move more and sleep enough, KareBoost Health can help. Set up a free consultation today to find out how we can help you live your healthiest life.

Karen L. Leibowitz, MD
Health and Medical Coach
KareBoost Health

Ever try to eat right at the airport? It is hard! Flying is stressful enough without worrying about staying on track with your healthy eating plan. Today, we will discuss 3 easy, simple strategies to help you eat right at the airport and on your flight. Try these healthy eating tips on your next trip!

3 Strategies to Eat Right At The Airport

1. Security-Approved Foods. Airport food can be very pricey, and depending on the airport, healthy eating options can be limited. Pack foods that are light and pass through security easily. Nuts, homemade trail mix, popcorn, whole grain crackers, cheese and bananas will all make it through security. Because you might not be able to adhere to your regular meal time schedule while traveling, go for snack rich in nutrients and fiber to keep you satisfied.
2. Healthy Food at the Airport. Nowadays there are many more options for health-conscious travelers. Look for snack with whole grains and fiber. Packages of nuts, hummus and crackers and fruit are usually readily available. You could also pick up a salad or veggie-packed sandwich to take on the plane with you.
3. Hydration. The air on planes is very dry, and the stress of traveling can add to dehydration. Bring an empty water bottle with you. Many airports offer filtered water or a water fountain that you can fill up at once you are through security. Try to stay hydrated and avoid confusing thirst with hunger.

With these simple tips in mind, you can stay on track during your next trip. Preparation is key to stay relaxed, hydrated and full while traveling. Looking for more simple tips on staying healthy? Set up a free consultation with KareBoost Health today to learn more.

Karen L. Leibowitz, MD
Health and Medical Coach
KareBoost Health

Yes, you CAN include Artificial Sweeteners in a healthy diet.  Artificial Sweeteners or non-nutritive sweeteners, are low-calorie or non-caloric sweeteners such as aspartame (NutraSweet and Equal), sucralose (Splenda) and saccharin (Sweet’N Low). Here, what to know about artificial sweeteners and how to include them in a healthy diet.

Ways to Include Artificial Sweeteners in a Healthy Diet

1. Limit Sugar in Your Diet.
   If you are trying to eat healthier, you might be trying to limit added sugars in your diet. These are not the naturally occurring sugars in fruit, which is also high in fiber and contains many beneficial nutrients and vitamins. Instead, the American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars, such as those found in candy, soda and other highly processed foods. Too much added sugar can lead to weight gain, which can lead to other health problems.
2. Artificial Sugars as a Replacement.
   The American Heart Association refers to artificial sugars such as aspartame as non-nutritive sugars, since they offer NO nutritional benefits. They may be low in calories or have no calories, depending on the brand. Replacing sugary foods and drinks, such as soda, with foods containing artificial sugars, such as diet soda, is one way to limit calories and sugar. Replacing sugars with non-nutritive sugars is also one way to help people with diabetes manage blood glucose levels.
3. Finding A Healthy Balance.
   Replacing sugary foods with artificial sugars can lower calories in your diet and help you maintain a healthy weight. However, it is important to keep in mind that just because a food is sugar free, it does not mean it is healthy. Choose foods and beverages that are rich in nutrients, such as produce. Focus more on nutrient dense foods that are low in saturated fat and added sugars and use foods with artificial sugars as a treat in an otherwise healthy diet.

Need to know more about Ways to Include Artificial Sweeteners in a Healthy Diet? Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Karen today, and learn how KareBoost Health can support you on your journey towards wellness!

Karen L. Leibowitz, MD
Health and Medical Coach
KareBoost Health