Tough health news to receive as we head closer to 2011: The results of the Virginia Childhood Obesity Survey of 2,500 youth, commissioned by the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth, have found that 1 out of every 5 kids between the ages of 10 and 17 are either obese or overweight. This should be a wake-up call to all parents about their own health habits and those that they are helping to develop in their children.
Stats about childhood obesity in Virginia:
- Highest in Southwest Virginia.
- Lowest in No. VA & central VA.
- Boys & young men were more obese than females.
- 83% of the obese kids thought they were ok weight-wise.
- Only 4% met the USDA recommended 9 servings of fruits & veggies daily.
- 21% have chips, candy and/or, soda daily.
- On a school day, 50% of kids watch 2 hours or MORE of TV.
- 33% play video games for 20 hours or MORE each week.
These results should shake us all into action, but especially Virginia parents. Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death in the U.S., behind smoking. And here in Virginia more than 60% of the adults are either overweight and obese.
We cannot take childhood obesity lightly. More young people are developing what traditionally were adult problems: type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and high blood cholesterol. All reversible with a leaner weight.
Be sure to focus on veggies when serving family meals. Toss any fresh veggies with olive oil and herbs. Bake in hot 425-degree oven for just 6-10 minutes or until crisp tender. This dish includes fresh cauliflower.
