7 Healthcast
Lean families
As childhood obesity rates skyrocket, doctors are becoming more concerned about families leading unhealthy lifestyles. Now a new program is helping parents get all the information they need to have a 'lean family.'
Two-year-old Tucker is just one reason his mom wants to know as much as possible about keeping her family healthy.
Kim Roach, mother
"I want my kids to know what balance is in eating and play and really just every aspect of their life."
And she's getting advice from doctors, who created the "Lean Families" program.
Dr. Leann Kridelbaugh, pediatrician
"We're talking about nearly half of our population either overweight or obese, and that's not just a cosmetic issue. There are health problems associated with being overweight."
The doctor says it starts in the kitchen.
Dr. Leann Kridelbaugh, pediatrician
"If you use the peanut butter as a spread or a dip for the apples, they're getting fruit and a protein ... and the protein will help the child have that sense of fullness a little bit longer."
Next we move to the nursery ... and the importance of play time.
Dr. Leann Kridelbaugh, pediatrician
"It doesn't have to be all at the same time, but we would like all kids to get at least an hour of active play a day."
Limiting time in front of the television is also part of a healthy family lifestyle.
Dr. Leann Kridelbaugh, pediatrician
"Experts recommend no more than two hours of television a day for kids ... and no television before the age of two."
It is all part of an effort to reverse a troubling trend.
Dr. Leann Kridelbaugh, pediatrician
"If we don't turn this obesity epidemic around, this may be the first generation of children that doesn't live as long as their parents."
Kim has no intention of letting that happen to her kids ... and thanks to a little information, she'll have them off to a healthy start.
Kim Roach, mother
"Oh... it's the best feeling ever."
Experts say its really about balance. Kids can enjoy some of their favorites, just in moderation.
And be sure they get plenty of exercise and rest to develop and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
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