Kids Diet, Child Obesity Epidemic, Children's Diet

CHILDREN & THE OBESITY EPIDEMIC

This article should not be intended or used as a professional guide to your child's health. If you have concerns about your child's diet, speak with your Pediatrician or doctor.

Reference Source: 'Fat-Proof Your Child' by Joseph C. Piscatella

The Fast Food Phenomenon

Everything is 'bigger' these days when dining out. "Biggie" fries, "Supersize" option. The Triple-Decker Pizza at Pizza Hut has more fat than a stick and a half of butter! When ordering, opt for the smaller version - or share the larger one with your child. If it's not enough food, you can always order more.

The Parent Factor – The positive roll you can play in your child's diet, health and fitness. What a responsibility! What an opportunity!!!

• Feed your child a variety of foods that are balanced with physical activity.

• Provide a diet that is low in fat and saturated fat and cholesterol; high in fiber; moderate in sugars, salt and sodium.

• Modify your kid's favorite foods rather than introducing unfamiliar ones.

• Decrease salt when cooking.

• Include fresh foods and fewer processed ones.

• Choose leaner cuts of meat and strictly limit red meat.

• Limit canned tuna, as well as fresh fish. Recent findings site mercury is more concentrated in some fish than previously thought.

• Always keep a fresh supply of milk on hand for your child. We all know the benefits of milk – stronger bones, whiter teeth, extra calcium.

• Find out what foods your child is eating away from home, such as during school.

• Encourage your child to drink water, a precious and necessary cleansing agent.

• Encourage your child to be active.

• If your child is overweight, seek professional help. An overweight child can be locked in emotional misery. If eating habits and current lifestyle are not altered, your child may be doomed to a lifetime of chronic health problems.

• If stress is influencing your child, take your child off the emotional roller coaster.

• Set an example. You are a very important 'pattern' in your child's life. Share activities with your child. Try getting them involved in the kitchen where they can learn firsthand the basics of healthy cooking.