Childhood Obesity

According to the federal Center for Disease Control, thiry two percent of American children and teenagers are classified as overweight or obese. Obesity puts children and adults at high risk for developing serious health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure,heart disease or stroke. Over a period of years there are a collection of factors contributing to our national obesity problem. Think about all of the conveniences of our everyday life. How far do you walk everyday? How many times do you walk to the TV to change the channel? How many hours do you spend on the computer? How often do you eat meals at home? Good nutrition and physical activity go hand in hand for good health. As a dairyfarm mom, registered nurse and a consumer, I am very excited about the Fuel Up to Play 60 program. This program is a partnership between dairy farmers, the NFL and the USDA. Dairy farmers have committed $250 million over the next five years for this program. Dairy farmers contribute money from the product that we produce through the National Dairy Check-off Program. Dairy Check-0ff dollars are spent on research and promotion of dairy products and this is a great win for the consumer and the dairy farmer. As I go to take care of my calves tomorrow morning, I am going to hope that you are hugging your children and setting a good example for them by teaching them and showing them about a healthy lifestyle which includes good nutrition and 60 minutes of exercise every day!!