Practice 5-2-1-0 all year: March Ideas

Are you and your family aiming to follow better health habits? The 5-2-1-0 approach is a great model for anyone of any age. Here’s what the numbers represent every day:

• 5 veggies and fruits
• 2 hours or fewer of screen time
• 1 hour of exercise
• 0 sugary drinks

Ask your family how they might adopt 5-2-1-0 from season to season.

Here are a few 5-2-1-0 ideas for the month of March:

• Check sales for fruits and veggies. As a new growing season gets under way, you might see sales on winter produce as stores and pantries make room for incoming spring veggies and fruits. You might also find savings in the canned goods aisle and freezer section. This is a budget-friendly way to reach your family’s goal of eating five veggies and fruits per day.
• Feel like spring cleaning? If warmer weather inspires you, pick a few areas you and your kiddos can work on together. Use a simple nontoxic cleaner, water and rags (or paper towels) to wipe windows, baseboards or other spots that might have been overlooked. Cleaning is a great activity to break away from screens.
• Rediscover where you live. Go for a walk in the park or through your neighborhood. Look for signs of spring. Count the new blooms. Take photos. Note how things change. If you have time, find other green spaces to explore. Read more tips for staying active in cold weather. 
• Try a new smoothie. Water and milk can get a little boring, day in and day out. If your family craves variety, try making smoothies. Following are links to a few suggested recipes:
  • Shamrock smoothie 
  • Mixed berry smoothie 
  • Pumpkin spice smoothie
    
    Don't have a blender? Chop or mash soft fruit, such as bananas or berries, then stir or shake in a jar with water, juice or milk. You can also use protein powder and seeds such as chia to add flavor and nutrition without a blender. 

Can such small steps make a difference? Try them for yourself and see how you and your family feel about building habits—little by little—for good health.

Staying healthy isn’t always easy. When you or your family are under the weather, PeaceHealth is here for you — ready to help you get back to feeling better.