Good eating habits must start during early childhood and should be combined with adequate exercise. Unfortunately, many South Asians believe that rounder children are healthier children. Based on this misconception, parents, grandparents and other extended family members frequently set unrealistically high standards for a child's daily food intake

Adults and seniors should realize that it is never too late to start making positive changes in their lifestyles. Adopting a healthy diet, starting an exercise program, losing weight and quitting smoking can significantly extend a person's lifespan and improve his or her quality of life. Adults should make it a priority to not only make these changes in their own lives, but also positively influence the lives of their loved ones. To prevent health problems in the future, South Asian parents should serve as role models and emphasize the importance of daily exercise and healthy eating to children at a very early age and become ambassadors of good health for their family and friends

The South Asian diet can be high in calories and rich in saturated fats. People of South Asian descent are at greater risk of developing heart disease and stroke – and at a much earlier age – compared with other ethnic groups. Contributing to this risk is the greater chance of high blood pressure and diabetes amongst South Asians. The increased risk of heart disease makes eating a well-balanced diet important for South Asians of all ages hence they need to make their health and wellness a priority during all phases of life.

Making small changes in how you cook can have a big impact on the total amount of fat and calories that you and your family eat. Changing to a healthier lifestyle is about making small gradual changes to your daily eating and activity habits. You can lower your risk by being aware of your risk factors and what you can do to prevent heart attack and stroke.

There are some simple changes you can make to help you control your weight, blood sugar and lipids. By making some changes, you can reduce your risk of a heart attack.

• Balance your meals.
• Eat smaller portions.
• Emphasize healthy carbohydrates.
• Eat lean protein.
• Limit fat, oil and salt intake.
• Being physically active.

SAWAC can assist by:

• Improving South Asian health and reducing disease risk through culturally tailored programs, health related services and educational resources.
• Introducing collaboration with South Asian physician consultation services where you will receive a thorough evaluation & lifestyle plan by a doctor expert in South Asian health.
• Exploring South Asians myths regarding different food categories.
• Providing classes and programs for Healthy Recipes to assist various wellness programs.
• Classes to provide information on creative Ways to Get Physical.