September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. According to the Centers for Disease Control, childhood obesity is a major public health problem and has the potential to lead to lifelong issues. It occurs when a child’s body mass index (BMI) is at or above the 95th percentile for children and teens of the same age and sex. Children who have obesity are more likely than non-obese children to be obese as adults, face more bullying, have mental health problems, have diabetes and increased risk of certain cancers. The good news is childhood obesity is 100% preventable! 

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Here are some things you can do to decrease your child’s chances of becoming overweight or obese:

• Participate as a family in a walk/run
• Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet
• Drink more water and less sugary carbonated drinks
• Ensure that your child is getting an adequate amount of sleep
• Limit television viewing and video game play
• Encourage children to participate in activities that are age-appropriate and enjoyable
• Be a role model and lead by example!!!

For more information, visit:
http://www.cdc.gov/features/childhoodobesity/
http://www.choosemyplate.gov/
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/HealthierKids/ChildhoodObesity/Preventing-Childhood-Obesity-Tips-for-Parents-and-Caretakers_UCM_456118_Article.jsp