A recent study from the University of Washington showed that more 2-year-olds are regularly watching television than ever before. A study done at Johns Hopkins concluded that a child’s weight increases with the number of hours they spend in front of the television each day.What parent hasn’t popped in a DVD to occupy the kids for a few hours? How often do you find yourself in the drive-thru line ordering a cheeseburger and fries?Childhood obesity is now described as an epidemic. It puts a child’s health at risk and makes them more susceptible to problems involving their cardiovascular system, endocrine system and even their mental health. Obese children have a greater chance of remaining obese into adulthood; thus, greatly increasing the likelihood of serious health problems.Type 2 diabetes mellitus, depression and low self-esteem are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the problems looming over the heads of overweight children.I’m not telling you anything that you don’t already know. It doesn’t take a study done at Johns Hopkins to discover that kids today are putting on weight in ways we never did – you just have to open your eyes to notice.The ‘why’ is simple. It goes back to the basic equation for weight gain: energy in versus energy out. Kids eat too much and do too little.What do your kids eat?Do they eat three balanced meals a day? Do they eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day? Are they limited in their servings of fried, processed and sugary foods?Identify the foods your kids are eating that are rich in calories but lacking in nutritional value; for example, candy, fast food, chips, cookies, soda pop and pizza.Replace these foods with fresh nutrient-dense foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean meats and low-fat dairy.How much activity do your kids get?Computers, video games and satellite television are our children’s latest and greatest toys. Who has time to play outside when you are about to beat the hardest level or your favorite show is about to start? Our kids participate in less physical activity and are more sedentary than any previous generation.A great way to encourage activity is to limit the time your children spend on sedentary activities like television and video games. Sign your kids up on a local sports team so that they can run and be active with other kids. Take the whole family to the park on a weekend instead of gathering in front of the television.Monkey see monkey doKids watch what parents do even when it comes to diet and exercise.Do you model good eating habits or do your kids see you frequently indulge? Do you exercise regularly or do your kids see you on the couch in front of the television all weekend?If your eating habits and activity levels have slipped, it may be time to turn things around. It’s never too late to set a positive example for kids.RECIPE OF THE MONTHTurkey spaghetti sauceThis spaghetti sauce is delicious and packed with protein. For an even healthier option, serve the sauce over cooked spaghetti squash or steamed broccoli.Servings: 6Here’s what you need…1 pound uncooked turkey tenderloin, cubed1 medium green pepper, cut into 3/4-in. pieces1 medium onion, cut into wedges2/3 cup sliced fresh mushrooms1 tablespoon canola oil1 jar (15-1/2 ounces) meatless spaghetti sauce1 cup sliced turkey pepperoni, halved1/2 cup dry red wine or chicken broth1 tablespoon tomato paste10 ounces uncooked vermicelli1. In a Dutch oven or large kettle, sautÈ the turkey, green peppers, onion and mushrooms in oil until vegetables are tender. Stir in spaghetti sauce, pepperoni, wine or broth and tomato paste. Bring to a boil.2. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 45 minutes. Uncover; simmer 15 – 20 minutes longer or until thickened. Meanwhile, cook vermicelli according to package directions; drain. Serve with sauce.Nutritional analysis: One serving equals 321 calories, 5g fat, 40g carbohydrate, 4g fiber, and 28g protein.– David Corder NSCA-CPT www.perfectfitwc.com
