Preventing Childhood Obesity

• In the 21st century Americans are
  • Exercising less,
  • Eating larger portion of food,
  • Eating more high fat, high calorie, and snack foods. 
  
  
• Obesity can lead to serious medical conditions including;
• Type 2 diabetes,
• Coronary heart disease and
• Arthritis. 

For more information about the health effects of obesity check out the American Obesity Association.

In addition to becoming sick, people who are obese also deal with discrimination and mistreatment that is unfortunately becoming socially acceptable.

The good news is that if an overweight or obese person can lose just 10% of his or her body weight this can have a big effect on health.
 
Six Ways to Stay Healthy!

• Encourage your kids to play and exercise for at least 60 minutes every day.  Adults need to be active for at least 30 minutes a day.
• Eat foods from all food groups.  Check out MyPyramid.gov to get your personalized food pyramid.
• Eat smaller or proper portion sizes.
• Eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. 
• Drink more water!
• Spend no more than 2 hours a day in front of the TV or playing video/computer games.