Limit Soda
Though there are 24 hours in every day, it seems there's never enough time to accomplish everything you need to do as a parent. Trying to integrate healthy habits into your family's already hectic schedule can add even more stress. But when you make time for healthy habits, you'll find yourself with extra energy, less stress and a greater ability to take on life's challenges.

Getting healthy doesn't happen overnight. Take your time, enjoy the ride, and make one small change at a time. Here is one habit you can easily fit into your routine today.

Cut back on the amount of soda your family drinks.

You probably wouldn't offer a young child coffee, yet parents regularly serve their children soft drinks and sodas that contain caffeine. Adults should limit their own caffeine intake to less than 400 milligrams daily. Although the U.S. hasn't developed caffeine guidelines for kids, Canadian guidelines suggest that preschool children consume no more than 45 milligrams of caffeine (one can of soda) daily.

Besides being devoid of nutrients, these beverages have negative effects on both children and adults, including jitters, nervousness, headaches, difficulty concentrating or sleeping, and nausea. These effects are compounded even more in children because they're smaller. Because caffeine is also a diuretic, causing more frequent urination, too much can contribute to dehydration--especially on hot, humid days.