How can we raise healthy kids? In a world where preventable obesity has become commonplace and illnesses are running rampant, how can we take a more active role in our children’s health? Jordan Rubin joins me in this episode of Dads on Tap to begin a conversation about raising healthy kids.
Jordan Rubin is regarded by many as the most respected and beloved natural health expert in America. His personal account of his battle and triumph over Crohn’s disease has resonated with millions around the world and is one of the most dramatic natural health stories ever told.
A successful entrepreneur, New York Times best-selling author, international motivational speaker and television personality, Jordan’s message of health and wellness is a beacon to the masses who are looking for answers to help take control of their health.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
- Learn more about Jordan Rubin and his dad [2:02]
- Jordan shares more about his wife and family [7:52]
- When a child is struggling with substance abuse [12:37]
- How Jordan’s personal story drives his passion for health [16:50]
- What concerns Jordan about the health of our children [22:59]
- How can you raise healthier kids? [28:08]
- Why sleep is important for children [33:21]
- The impact of sugar and technology on our kids [36:07]
- How to pay attention to the mental health of your kids [39:28]
- One dietary change every dad should make [42:13]
- Where to start with supplements and probiotics [43:01]
- The importance of a spiritual life to our kid’s health [46:33]
How Jordan’s personal story drives his passion for health
Jordan grew up the son of “Hippie” health-nut parents. His dad was a chiropractor/naturopath. The principles of health were crammed down his throat. So he ate healthy at home and ate junk food everywhere else, whenever possible.
But when Jordan was a teenager, he developed Crohn's Disease. He became deathly ill and lost so much weight that he was confined to a wheelchair. He saw 69 health experts who couldn’t help him get well. Conventional medicine failed him.
Then Jordan met someone who told him that if he followed a health plan based on the Bible—that is now confirmed by science—he could be well. He committed himself to the health plan and 80 days later he was almost completely better. He’s been sharing his story ever since.
Jordan’s goal is to heal the planet, feed the world, and transform health. He’s passionate about stewarding God’s creation. He’s healthy, whole, and shares his testimony of God’s healing.
What concerns Jordan about the health of our children
The majority of children in America aren’t eating an appropriate diet. Parents lack a dietary plan or strategy for their children. Most families eat the same 11–14 foods in different combinations.
Jordan points out that many foods we eat today include ingredients created by man. This leads to obesity, which is becoming more prevalent in children. Type 2 Diabetes used to be called “Adult Onset Diabetes.” It’s called type 2 diabetes now because children are becoming diabetics because of poor nutrition.
Children don’t have guidance in health and wellness. Health has become by default, not by design. The “defaults” are fast, convenient, and cheap. They’re the worst things we can eat.
But Jordan remains hopeful. When Jordan grew up in the ‘70s/80s, healthy food was disgusting. It’s becoming cooler and more common to shop at a health food store. There’s more access to healthy food options than ever before.
How can you raise healthier kids?
Jordan’s call-to-action for every dad is to get off the bench and get in the game. Most moms are the ones that shop, meal plan, take kids to doctors, etc. Be proactive in the lives of your children and set an example.
Take care of yourself. Don’t eat what your kids can’t eat. Create an environment conducive to your child’s health. Jordan loves Proverbs 22:6: “Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart.”
Where can you start? Jordan typically recommends a diet of “whole” food that prioritizes protein to fuel your body. Jordan doesn’t believe that pork and shellfish are ideal sources of protein. Secondly, Jordan isn’t a fan of artificial sweeteners. They can cause toxicity in the brain (and we need to protect our children’s brains).
Lastly, hydrogenated oils are harmful (found in most packaged goods). Removing these things from your diet can reduce some of the damage that causes challenges as children age.
Where to start with supplements and probiotics
A supplement should address a need that your diet is deficient in. Jordan is a large believer in making sure your children have collagen in their diet. That can be through bone broth or a supplement. It positively impacts your bones, skin, hair, nails, joints, and so much more. Numerous injuries can be avoided if you have enough collagen in your diet.
What is the quality of sleep so important? What is the impact of sugar and technology on our kids? What is the importance of a spiritual life to our kid’s health? How can you pay attention to the mental health of your kids? Jordan covers each of these important topics in this episode of Dads on Tap.
Question for Discussion: What can you do to be more present in your kid’s life? How can you be more engaged?
Resources & People Mentioned
Connect with Jordan Rubin
- Ancient Nutrition
- Garden of Life
- The Maker’s Diet
- Connect on LinkedIn
Connect With Scott and Dads on Tap
- The Dads on Tap website
- Follow us on Facebook
- Follow DOT on Instagram: @TheDadsOnTap
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Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK