Ever hope there’s more to you than what you eat—especially when you review a week’s worth of junk you’ve gobbled? Maybe the scale says it’s time for a few more salads and fewer desserts. Could be your children are facing the battle of the bulge too.

If so, make a family commitment to adopt healthier way of eating. It’s easy to fall into patterns of snacking while watching TV, eating too late, or even eating what upsets your stomach. Bad habits can be broken and bent into better directions. If your children are already fitting a bit too snugly into the family mold, take immediate steps.

The “die” word comes first. Your “die”-t doesn’t have to be terrible, but it must include balanced, calorie-conscious meals. Snacks and sweets, especially soft drinks and juices, must be curtailed. Cut down the number of times you go out. Once your family gets a taste of the healthful alternatives, they won’t want to go back.

Part two is exercise. Start a simple program incorporating stretches and walking. As you become more accustomed to the program, add in some push-ups, sit-ups, and easy free weights to build up the arms and upper body. Take advantage of exercise programs on television.

Some kids take naturally to healthy living. It will be more of a challenge for some to get on track. Be persistent. With time, even the most reluctant will grow to like the benefits of living a healthier life.

When you help your kids join good eating with healthy exercise patterns, you increase the likelihood of their having longer, happier lives. And you help them avoid mistakes you’ve made. Look at your watch. Is it almost time to eat? Make some changes now, before you set the table.