Welcome! This page on the MDA website spotlights childhood
health and nutrition. We will be offering tips for both parents and health
professionals. Thanks for visiting, and for helping MDA give ALL children
a healthier future!
CHILDHOOD OBESITY
Tips for Parents
Children have increased energy requirements due to growth. The lack of a healthy diet partnered with little
physical activity makes for a harmful combination that can equal obesity. Read below to find some tips
for decreasing consumption of high caloric foods:
Encourage children to get at least the recommended one-hour of physical activity per day.
Research shows that 40-69% of children over the age of six are not reaching this goal.
Create an active environment by making time for the entire family to exercise together.
Something as simple as going for a walk or playing catch can be fun and beneficial.
Parents set a prominent example for children. Provide and enjoy a healthy diet with fresh
fruits and vegetables. As children grow older they will tend to stick to this eating pattern.
Watch portion sizes. Label reading is necessary because a serving size does not always equal
the entire package.
Limit the amount of regular soda pop your child is drinking. Offer water, light juice or skim milk instead.
Instead of putting the focus on losing weight, focus on healthy lifestyle habits that promote
weight maintenance (allow children to grow into their weight). Dieting can effect a child’s growth
and may lead to the development of eating disorders.
Tips for Health Professionals
Support and promote Dietary Guidelines for Americans, theUSDA’s Food Guide Pyramid for
Young Children (2-6years of age) and promote the use of the Fitness Pyramid for Kids to encourage
physical activity among children.
Promote healthy dietary guidelines in schools by strengthening nutrition education and
promotion in school nutrition programs.
Tips for Parents
Tips for Health Professionals