March 4th is World Obesity Day.
The mission of WOD is to help spread awareness, encourage advocacy, improve policies, and share personal stories.
According to the CDC, obesity affects approximately 1 in 5 children and adolescents in the U.S.
Preventing obesity and other related complications starts early... even before your child is born!
Did you know.....
A mother’s diet, smoking habits, and weight gain during pregnancy can increase the likelihood of childhood obesity.
What else can we do:
model healthy habits at home
encourage a positive body image and self-confidence
focus on overall health, not the number on the scale (please don’t weigh your child at home. Leave that for the visits at the pediatrician’s office)
make changes together, as a family
get the kids involved- have them pick out the produce for the week and help you meal prep
turn the TV off during mealtime
in fact, limit all screen time including iPads, video games, etc.
stay active as a family. Aim for a walk every night after dinner
fill the house with healthy snacks
get rid of the juices and ensure your child is getting plenty of water (this is for older children, not those younger than 6mo, that should be getting breast milk or formula)
establish good sleep habits
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