New York, NY (PRWEB) February 06, 2014
February is American Heart Month. To promote heart health, Dr. Michael Gabriel of Gabriel Pediatrics, a Brooklyn pediatric care center, offers parents three preventative steps to take in order to reduce the risk of heart disease in their children.
- Provide Good Nutrition. “Parents have the responsibility of providing their children with healthy food and snack options. Colorful fruits and veggies, as well as steady water intake, should be incorporated into diets as young as possible to ensure healthy habits are instilled into their daily routines,” says Gabriel. “Preparing meals with your children as they grow is also a great way to educate them about the importance of healthy foods.”
Gabriel adds, “Just be sure to avoid all foods with excessive fats, sugars and salts when feeding your children. Soft drinks can also add unnecessary amounts of sugar to meals.”
- Reduce Sedentary Lifestyle. “With all of the technology available these days, children are spending more time in front of TV and computer screens and less time outside running around,” says Gabriel. “Make sure to encourage physical activity by playing with them outside.”
- Most importantly, start early. “Heart disease prevention needs to start as early as possible to reduce risk for obesity, diabetes, etc.” Gabriel explains. “Ensuring that your child has heart healthy eating habits and regular physical activity is the best thing you can do for them as parents.”
Gabriel Pediatrics provides comprehensive pediatric care to children throughout the New York area with practices both in Brooklyn and Staten Island. Our board certified pediatricians and experienced staff help provide a very warm and nurturing environment for both you and your children. Our approach combines the latest treatment methods with the personal attention you should expect from your doctor. Simply put, we understand the importance of communication and trust and we are earning that trust one family at a time.