Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Childhood

American College of Sports Medicine ask all of us to be aware of the rise in obesity among our children and youth. In the past four decades, obesity in the United States has increased significantly with children and youth between the ages of 6 and 11. Over 23 million children and teenagers in the United States ages 2 to 19 are obese or overweight. That is alarming. It is obvious since we see these young people where ever we go like school, restaurants, shopping, sports events and church. September has been designated as “National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month” bringing national attention to a growing reality among young people in the United States. The reality TV show “Too Fat For 15” brings to light the situation with all the problems these young people experience. If you have children in your life, be aware of the ways you might encourage them to move towards a healthier lifestyle. Patents, grandparents, brothers and sisters can always have healthy snacks available. Treats are treats and should be looked upon as such. While the TV and Computer are part of our daily life, far too many children are using it nonstop for entertainment. If that seems hard to believe, just ask some of your friends. Sitting gets us all in trouble. The hardest part may be setting a good example.