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Child Health Week to be observed

Child Health Week to be observed

Posted: Wednesday, October 8, 2008 9:11 pm

  

You have the chance to prevent a disease. 

More children in Tennessee are overweight or obese than ever before.  But by helping a child to be active and eat healthy foods, you can help prevent obesity.  

One in three children in Ten-nessee is overweight or obese.  In fact, Tennessee ranks fourth in the nation for teenagers who are overweight or obese. Children who are overweight or obese are more likely to be overweight or obese when they grow up.  

They can have health problems like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. When they get older, they are more likely to have a heart attack, stroke, or diabetes.  

Sometimes, the cause of a disease is a mystery.  But it is no secret why so many kids are overweight or obese.  Many children spend more time inside watching TV or playing video games than playing outside. Children and families eat foods that are high in calories and fat.  These behaviors cause us to take in more energy than we use.  When that happens, that extra energy is stored as fat.  

How can you help prevent this disease? The most important thing you can do is to set a good example for children. Children want to be like adults, so make sure that the choices you make are ones that will help keep them healthy. Help your child be active for at least an hour a day.  Play outside games together, go for walks, and limit time spent watching TV and video games.  Let your children help you make healthy snacks, pick colorful foods for their plate, and limit sodas and fast food.

Tennessee will celebrate Child Health Week next week, focusing on ways for children and families to make healthy eating choices and be physically active.  Do everything you can during Child Health Week and every week to be a good role model for your child and help them to make healthy choices every day.  
Published in The Messenger 10.08.08