I know we’ve all heard this before, but the problem isn’t going away. We need to be conscious of the dangers of obesity and model healthy behavior for our kids to emulate. Here are the facts:
- One in three children in the U.S. is overweight or obese.
- Childhood obesity puts kids at risk for health problems that were once seen only in adults, like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.
There is good news. Childhood obesity can be prevented. By adopting a healthier diet and purposefully budgeting time to play and be active, you can help reduce this trend.
We can all use this month to raise awareness about the obesity epidemic. Taking small steps as a family can help your child stay at a healthy weight.
Here are just a few ideas:
- Have a visual reminder of the recommended serving sizes for different food groups. Visit choosemyplate.gov for printable illustrations that you can hang on the refrigerator and reference at meal times.
- Planning is the key to healthy eating. Make a weekly menu and post it so your family knows what’s for dinner and what snacks are available every day. If you’re going to order pizza or have take-out, plan it.
- Write out your grocery list and stick to it. Do the majority of your shopping around the perimeter of the grocery store – this is where the fresh foods are.
- Make food prep a habit. When you get home from the supermarket, take the time to wash and cut up fruits and vegetables so they’re readily available for snacks.
- Keep screen time to a minimum. Make a house rule that limits screen time (time spent on the computer, watching TV, or playing video games) to two hours or fewer per day.
- Get active outside. Walk around the neighborhood, go on a bike ride or play basketball at the park.
We’re here to help! Check out your local YMCA at www.napervilleymcas.org for swimming, gym and family fitness options.
