Childhood Obesity Rates May Take a Turn in the Right Direction

There are some children who consume upwards of 50% of their calories at school, so the foods offered there can have a big impact on their health. “The goal of the school lunch program was, and is, to ensure that students receive enough nutrition to be healthy and to learn” said Rep. Steve King, regarding the No Hungry Kids Act—which he took part in introducing. Changes have been made this year that allow children to have a healthier lunch with fewer calories.

Several cities and states have seen a decline in the rates of childhood obesity. New York City, Mississippi, California, and Philadelphia, which have been involved in tracking the trend, have started to see improvements. Although they have been small, it is better than the increase in rates we have seen the past 30 years. As detailed in one of my earlier blogs in September, “New School Year + New School Menu = Healthier Kids”, changes are being made in school cafeterias such as lower sodium levels, healthier foods in the vending machines, and the offering of more whole grains. It is evident things are beginning to move in the right direction.

Unfortunately, some high school students are not happy with the changes and have boycotted the school cafeteria. It is important for children to understand the importance of a healthy diet and how it can impact their daily life by helping them focus more in school and feel more alert. Once government regulations on soda, cookies, chips, and candy sold in vending machines in schools go into effect, obesity rates are expected to decrease even more.

We must ensure our children and other young family members are consuming a healthy and nutritious diet not only at school, but also at home. Talk with them and find out what they are eating at school. It is always a great idea to pack them a healthy lunch so they are not tempted by the less healthy fare being offered by the school. Having your children help you make their lunch the night before can be a great way for them to learn which foods are healthy and make them excited to be a part of preparing their food. You can also bring your children to the grocery store with you and let them pick out new fruits and vegetables for them to try.

I am excited to introduce my new program, “Healthy Kids, Happy Moms.” This a 12 session program geared towards children in kindergarten through 3rd grade. It provides a great opportunity for them to learn nutrition in a fun way for a bright future.

Please contact me at bonnie@brghealth.com for more information!