How much is it worth to put my children’s health first?
Put simply, it is time for me to pay more attention to my children’s health – what they eat and their activity levels. Before my own schedule. Before the fury of extra-curricular activities. It is time to stop looking at a Happy Meal as an adequate meal (others might do this). It is time to stop looking at Chik-Fil-a as an alternative because I haven’t prepared for the meal that is now upon us. [Note: I love you Chik-Fil-A. I do. But I can't support you anymore if I'm going to lose my own weight and get healthier.]
Obesity stats of adults are sobering. Look at the chart from the previous link and be astonished as you visually see the rise in obesity in this country from 1985 to 2010. It’s pitiful. It is inexcusable.
- Approximately 17% (or 12.5 million) of children and adolescents aged 2—19 years are obese.
- Since 1980, obesity prevalence among children and adolescents has almost tripled. (from CDC).
My thought is simple: If I choose to be overweight and out of shape, then that is an adult making a decision. If, however, my children are overweight or obese, that is completely on the parent. No excuse. Our children’s health must be addressed and I’ll start with my own as I have much learning to do on the subject. I do worry that my children are not getting enough protein, good fats and good carbohydrates. I worry that my daughter is not getting enough calcium. I can stop all this worrying by pulling myself out of ignorance and learn a little bit.
Here goes.
A day in the life of a child’s diet. – Here is a scary portrayal of how your child might be eating. At the very least, it will make you pause and consider what you are feeding your child. Our goal is to take this knowledge and move forward to a smarter way of providing nutrition for our children.
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