We have all heard the popular Mary Poppins song “a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.” But did you know that many kids are consuming dozens of spoonfuls of sugar every day and endangering their health? March is National Nutrition Month, which is an opportune time to address a critical issue: more than 40 percent of the children in central Indiana are at an unhealthy weight. These children are significantly more likely to develop diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, bone and joint pain, and other chronic – but preventable diseases.

Key Takeaways:

• March is National Nutrition Month, which is an opportune time to address a critical issue: more than 40 percent of the children in central Indiana are at an unhealthy weight.
• Unfortunately, children today have fewer opportunities to play and be active, as recess and physical education classes have been reduced or cut entirely in schools. Too many kids spend too much time sitting in front of computer screens, tablets or smart phones.
• Jump IN partners with organizations like Social Health Association of Indiana to promote healthy policies and practices in schools, and we are doing the same with other groups working with child care centers, youth organizations and employers.

“According to the American Academy of Pediatrics “families have a critical role in influencing children’s health and health is a real characteristic of the family lifestyle.””

https://fox59.com/2017/03/06/kids-first-on-fox-tips-on-how-build-healthy-lifestyles/