Childhood Obesity

One in 3 children in the United States are overweight or obese!
 Childhood obesity puts kids at risk for health problems that were once seen only in adults, like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

We can all use this month to raise awareness about the obesity epidemic and show people how they can take steps toward a solution:

• Encourage families to make small changes in their diet like keep fresh fruits and vegetables available at easy access
• Go on a family walk or hike after dinner
• Be involved to make schools healthier through healthy food options and daily physical activities for students.
• Be a leader in the community by supporting programs that prevent childhood obesity

http://www.fmi.org/family-meals-month


Here are a few examples of how to make a difference:

• Add information about obesity prevention to your newsletter.
• Tweet about National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month.
• Host a community event where families can be active while learning about local health resources.
• Become a partner of We Can!, a national movement to help children ages 8 to 13 stay at a healthy weight.

For more information:

CDC's Childhood Overweight and Obesity

Vital Signs—Progress on Childhood Obesity

Strategies to Prevent Obesity—Early Care and Education

CDC Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans

BMI Calculator for Children and Teens

ChooseMyPlate.gov

Adolescent and School Health

Water Access in Schools

Let's Move! Child Care

Let's Move! Salad Bars to School