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March Is National Nutrition Month

March is National Nutrition Month, a time to spotlight the importance of healthy eating and physical activity to control weight and prevent chronic disease as organized by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one third of children and adolescents in the United States are overweight or obese, a number that has more than doubled over the past 30 years. Childhood obesity has both immediate and long-term effects on health and well-being, including:

• High risk for cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol or blood pressure
• High risk for pre-diabetes, which can lead to the development of diabetes
• High risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social or psychological problems
• High risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke as an adult
• High risk for developing many types of cancer as an adult

The first years set the stage for your child’s health habits for his/her entire life, and prevention is the number one way to avoid the lifelong health risks associated with childhood obesity. Food, nutrition and eating skills are some of the most important lessons you can teach your children- food to fuel busy, successful lives, nutrition to nourish strong bodies and smart brains, and eating skills to enjoy the social aspect of meals with family and friends.

To help raise healthy eaters, try your best to:

• Serve regular, balanced meals and snacks with nutrient-rich foods
• Provide pleasant and fun meal times where adults and children can talk
• Allow children to use their internal signals to decide what and how much to eat
• Explore food and flavors from different cultures and cuisines
• Share an appreciation for healthy food, prepared and shared with others
• Share the importance of food safety, including washing hands before eating
• Teach basic skills for making good choices while eating away from home

Of these items, regular family meals and involving kids in nutrition are the two most important things you can do to start your child’s healthy eating habits at a young age. Eating regular family meals and talking together help prevent behavioral problems at home and school, enhance academic success, promote healthy weight for kids, and improve nutrition. Getting your children involved in nutrition is fun for everyone, and can happen in your own kitchen or during a trip to the grocery store. Children can learn to categorize food groups, help pick out new foods to try, and plan the menu for your family meals.

At CarolinaEast Pediatrics, we realize how important preventative action can be. We promote our practice around these principles of healthy eating and living. If you have any questions about implementing a healthier lifestyle for your family, or even more specific questions about your child’s health, please schedule an appointment with one of our pediatricians today by calling 252-636-1919.

Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (www.eatright.org)