Families are being pulled in many directions each week with different school, work, and sporting activities consuming their time. In this time crunch, remembering to add healthy food choices and exercise can feel overwhelming. In the last 20 years, obesity in kids has doubled. Some age groups have even tripled the percentage of obese children. Obesity is very dangerous for your child and can lead to problems like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, asthma, liver disease and depression.
Make Sure to Start Small And Build
Make sure to make small changes over time and don’t make drastic changes that could start a mini-rebellion at home.
What To Eat and How to Eat It
- Eat low-calorie nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, lean meats and fish. Keep fatty and fried foods, baked goods and sweets off the menu.
- Drink more water and low fat milk. Avoid sweetened drinks like soda and energy drinks. A small amount of 100% fruit juice is OK for children who are at least 1 year old.
- Keep an eye on portion sizes. Remember that prepackaged and restaurant portions are usually too large. Try using smaller plates and bowls and eating meals at the table without TV or any other distractions
Kids Need Exercise
- Make sure your children are up and moving and taking part in at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.
- Kids keep their screen time down to two hours a day. Children under 2 should not have screen time.
Remember Why Your Doing This
You are doing all of this to move your family toward a more healthy lifestyle. Your children will carry the habits they form now all through their lives!
—
About Pediatrics of Florence
We believe that children are more than just “little adults.” They have unique personalities, challenges, and life circumstances and we have made every effort to make our offices and care as “kid friendly” as possible. We have an aquatic theme in the waiting rooms (separated for sick and well children) as well as themed examination rooms. All of our physicians are Board Certified Pediatricians and members of the American Academy of Pediatrics and our nurse practitioners are all licensed Pediatric Nurse Practitioners and are available to see both well and sick children.
>> More About Pediatrics of Florence