National Childhood Obesity and Healthy Aging Month

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness and Healthy Aging Month. A month dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of healthy eating, physical activity, and good nutrition for children and adults to ensure a healthy future. 

Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is a growing concern among health professionals, teachers and most importantly, parents. Studies show that childhood obesity is more than weight. In fact, it is most commonly the outcome of unhealthy habits that can potentially lead to ongoing health problems later in life. 

Aside from lifestyle habits, childhood obesity can have a significant impact on a child’s psychological and physical health as they age. As children become obese, the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, and other diseases significantly increases. Children who are overweight are also at a greater risk for depression, lower self-esteem and poor body image.

The good news is that it’s never too late to start developing healthy eating habits and remaining active!

Here are some tips for helping your child live a healthier lifestyle:

1. Make sure they eat a healthy breakfast every day

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day because it gives your child the energy needed to start the day off on a good note. A good breakfast should include whole grains like oatmeal or whole wheat bread and fruit like apples or oranges.

2. Always promote a consistent sleeping schedule

This is crucial because it helps children develop their brains, muscles, and bodies while regulating their appetite and hunger cues for the following days to come. 

3. Encourage kids to stay active by playing outside

Playing outside allows children to burn calories while having fun with friends at school recess or after-school sports teams. You can also add physical activity to your own routine and encourage your child to join.

Always remember, small everyday changes can lead to success!

Healthy Aging

Healthy aging is more than just looks! It’s about living life to the fullest, and making sure your body stays strong and healthy so that you can enjoy it for as long as possible. Studies show that staying active throughout life can help prevent the onset of chronic diseases like heart problems, diabetes, and arthritis. In addition, staying active may also reduce your risk of depression and dementia.

As we age, it becomes even more crucial to make sure that our bodies stay as healthy as possible. Here are some things you can do to promote healthy aging in adults: 

1. Exercise regularly

Exercise is one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy as you age. Not only will it help you maintain good balance and strength, but it also helps build your muscles, which is important for maintaining independence as you get older.

2. Eat a balanced diet

It’s important to eat foods that contain all the essential nutrients your body needs, including protein and vitamins.

3. Stay active

You can take part in activities you enjoy such as walking, gardening or playing sports. Find out what makes you feel good, and do more of it! 

Take care of yourself today so that you can take even better care of yourself tomorrow to lead a long, healthy life.

Our team at FTOC is dedicated to helping people live healthy, active lives. For more information on ways to stay healthy, check out our blog for monthly recipes and workouts. Families Together also offers plenty of classes that can help you stay active, including Strength Training and Karate. You can view our full schedule of classes on our Events page. More information about our Wellness Services can be found on our Wellness page. Please call 1(800) 597-7977 ext. 507 for more information on any Wellness program we offer.