Crisis We Can No Longer Ignore

By Kim Gubbins, CPNP

Childhood obesity is on the rise. One third of the children in our country are overweight or obese...ONE THIRD!!! We need to reduce calories and increase activity. This is truly a crisis and an epidemic that can no longer be ignored.

To put this crisis into perspective, realize that in the United States the annual consumption of seafood is 11 pounds. To counter this statistic, the average annual consumption of beef is 65 pounds (33 of those pounds being hamburger).

In 2010 the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. These organizations offered practical solutions for a healthier lifestyle. They suggested healthier food choices, the right portion sizes, and increasing physical activity. Below is a list of specific tips from the guidelines:

• Enjoy food but eat less
• Avoid oversized portions
• Make half of your plate fruits and vegetables
• Drink skim or 1% milk
• Look at labels; pick food with less sodium and less sugar
• Drink water and skip the sugary drinks

Here at Pediatric Health Associates childhood obesity is a huge concern. We are passionate about helping your children. ALL aspects of your child�s health are important to us. If you know your child is in need of nutrition counseling, please schedule an appointment. Your child deserves both your help and ours. The crisis can no longer be ignored.

References:

� The 2010 Dietary Guidelines at http://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/

� Tomson, B & Brat, I (2011) New Dietary Guidelines: Less Food, Less TV. Personal Journal.

Kim Gubbins
Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner