One of the largest problems facing our children today is the same epidemic that is affecting our entire society. Obesity is on the rise amongst both adults and children throughout the United States and in order to help, we've compiled a list of quick and easy suggestions to help kids stay fit. 1) Get them moving! Too many schools are cutting back physical education programs so let's get creative on some outdoor activities throughout the week. If they do not like sports, try tag, chase, or riding bikes. Just get them off of the couch. 2) Keep refined sugar to a minimum. Read your ingredient labels and be cautious of products with excessive amounts of sucrose and glucose. Sugar is especially not a good idea before bed so try something more nourishing. 3) Let T.V., video game, and computer time (unless of course for homework) be a reward for accomplishments such as good grades, completing chores on time or good behavior. 4) If you the parent have an active lifestyle, join a more family oriented health club with athletic activities, classes, rock climbing etc. that the kids can participate in. This will provide quality time with your children as well as a creative alternative to television and video games. Collaborate with fellow parents to coordinate group activities so your child will have more friends participating with them. 5) Be proactive. Risk factors such as heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep problems and joint problems can all be attributed to obesity. In our increasingly fast paced lifestyles, it is highly important to slow down just enough to monitor children and make sure we are doing the best we can for our their health and future.
