Being overweight as a child increases the risk of being overweight or having obesity as an adolescent and young adult.
Being overweight or having obesity can also lead to serious problems:
- Asthma
- Type 2 diabetes
- Sleep problems
- Heart disease
- Bone and joint problems
Being overweight or having obesity as a child is also linked to:
- Anxiety and depression
- Low self-esteem
- Getting bullied
Be a Role Model
Help your child your eat healthy and stay physically active. The healthy habits your child learns now can last a lifetime. When you choose to eat healthy and be physically active, your child will be more likely to make those choices, too.
Today, about 7 in 10 adults – and about 4 in 10 children and teens – are overweight or have obesity.
7 Healthy Habits
Eat more fruits and veggies.
Make half your plate fruits and vegetables every day!
Eat whole grains.
Eat oatmeal, whole wheat breads, or brown rice at meals.
Choose water instead of soda and sweetened drinks.
Choose water and low-fat or fat-free dairy milk (or lactose free or fortified soy versions) when you’re thirsty.
Eat a variety of protein foods.
Include different foods like seafood, beans, lentils, nuts, eggs, meats, or poultry.
Get children involved in the food preparation.
Children can help out by putting away groceries, stirring ingredients, peeling fruits, assembling salads, or setting the table.
Include at least 1 hour/day of activity
Find ways for your child to be active and move for at least 1 hour a day.
Limit screen time to 2 hours or less a day.
Screen time can include time spent using computers or smartphones, watching TV, or playing video games.
The importance of sleep
If kids don’t get enough sleep, they are at higher risk of being overweight or having obesity. Learn how much sleep your child needs
Need Help Buying Healthy Food?
There are programs that can help you pay for healthy food for your family. Learn about WIC and SNAP programs.
Get an Obesity Screening for Your Child
Make an appointment at a Canyonlands Healthcare clinic in your area for an obesity screening for your child.
Under the Affordable Care Act, insurance plans must cover obesity screening and counseling for kids. You may be able to get these services at no cost to you.
Your child may also qualify for free or low-cost health insurance through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Learn about coverage options for your family.
Contact our Canyonlands Patient Representative if you have questions about coverage or eligibility at (928)645-6616.
