September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, an important time to focus on how we can support our kids in making healthy decisions about food and exercise. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that 19 percent of children in the United States have obesity - about one in every five children. As parents, we play a crucial role in guiding our children toward a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Childhood obesity is when a child is well above healthy weight for his or her age and height. The most important thing to understand is that childhood obesity isn’t a choice, or a character flaw. According to LSU’s Penninton Biomedical Research Center, childhood obesity is a disease. Children with obesity have brains and bodies that are wired to gain weight and keep it on. They also live in a world that surrounds them with unhealthy foods and activities.
Here are a few tips to help your kids make better choices that will benefit their long-term health:
Make Healthy Eating a Family Priority
Encourage your kids to choose healthy, whole foods by making nutritious meals a part of daily life. Involve them in meal planning and cooking, so they learn the importance of balanced eating. Teach them to fill their plates with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. By making these foods easily accessible at home, children are more likely to choose them on their own.
Teach Moderation, Not Restriction
Instead of forbidding certain foods, teach your children about moderation. Help them understand that it's okay to enjoy treats occasionally, but their everyday diet should consist of nutrient-rich foods. Focusing on balance prevents kids from feeling deprived, while still instilling healthy habits.
Encourage Fun Physical Activities
Exercise doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Get your kids moving by finding activities they enjoy, whether it's soccer, swimming, dancing, or simply playing at the park. Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day, and try to make exercise something the whole family can enjoy together.
Set Realistic Screen Time Limits
Too much screen time can contribute to sedentary behavior and unhealthy snacking. Set clear limits on how much time kids spend on devices and encourage them to be more active instead. Outdoor play and family activities can serve as fun alternatives to screen-based entertainment. We recently wrote about the benefits of managing screen time and some tips to accomplish it.
Be a Positive Role Model
Children learn by example, so be a role model when it comes to your own eating and exercise habits. Make healthy choices in your daily life, and your kids will be more likely to follow your lead. Demonstrating a balanced lifestyle shows them that health is a priority for the entire family.
By helping your children make smart decisions about food and exercise, you're setting them up for a lifetime of good health. This National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, take the opportunity to reinforce positive habits that will last a lifetime.
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