Childhood Obesity Is Everyone’s Problem
Reducing childhood obesity in the U.S. needs to be a #1 priority. Here are some ways you can help:
Parents: Set a good example. Instead of focusing on a diet for one child in the family, focus on improving the health of all family members by removing junk foods from the home, and preparing or purchasing meals that are low in fat and sugar. Serve lots of different varieties of fruits and vegetables; avoid frying food; purchase whole-grain breads and cereals; use fat-free milk for all family members over the age of 2.
Restrict the amounts of meat, fish, chicken, eggs, beans and nuts to the serving sizes recommended by the USDA. The USDA website has information for all age groups and both genders, according to the amount of physical activity engaged in above your normal routine.
Limit TV and computer use to no more than 2 hours per day. Too much TV stifles a child’s creativity, and keeps them from getting necessary daily exercise. The new USDA guidelines for exercise say that we need to exercise
Tags: childhood obesity, health care costs