It’s no secret that there is an ever-increasing overweight and obesity crisis in our kids nationwide. It is a hefty health problem in the United States that needs to be remedied.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of overweight children in the United States rose nearly 20% in the past decade. One in every four children is now classified as either overweight or at risk for overweight.*
Obese children are at risk for serious health conditions that were once considered exclusively adult health concerns, such as: Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Obese children are also prone to low self-esteem that stems from being teased, bullied, or rejected by peers. Additionally, children who are overweight may be more likely than others to develop unhealthy dieting habits, eating disorders, and they may be prone to depression, as well as substance abuse.
Parents can take a family approach to helping their kids by modeling and enforcing good eating and exercising behavior. It’s the “practice what you preach” mentality of making eating and exercising a family affair. Getting off the couch and outside for a walk can do wonders for a family! Many people do not realize that the daily recommended caloric intake for children between the ages of four and 18 is less than 2000 calories!* (*Source: Americanheart.org)
Many fitness facilities are joining the fight against obesity to assist parents in making healthy food options accessible for their children. For example, a smoothie bar or cafe’ inside a health club can offer smoothies as a nutritious meal replacement for anyone of any age. (Look for smoothies that are nutritionally designed to replace a full meal, containing protein, carbohydrates, some fat and moderate sugar.) A smoothie can be a delicious, easy, and healthy option for adults and children. Many children find drinking smoothies comparable to milkshakes, and they think of it as a treat.
We all have a responsibility to our youth. We must help them feel good about themselves, and teach them how to make good food choices! Even for children, the secret to being happy and healthy is a lifestyle change to both healthy eating and exercise. By providing nutritious meal alternatives, such as smoothies, we can definitely help our kids become happier and healthier!
Stephanie Suddarth is the President of City Blends, Ltd. She can be contacted at 877.525.3637, or by email at stephanie@cityblends.com , or visit www.cityblends.com .
