"Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I will try again tomorrow."
--Mary Anne Radmacher
September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness
Month.
Obesity, especially in kids, is preventable
AND reversible. With one in three kids
at unhealthy weights, parents must become aware of the problem so they can
be part of the solution. Kids who are
overweight or obese are at increased risk for diseases typically seen in older
adults, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. Kids can suffer from psychological stress as a result of being bullied and having low self-esteem which can lead to depression and a lifetime of poor health outcomes.
We can ALL do something to be part of the solution to this
national problem that threatens children’s health. If children remain at unhealthy weights, they are more likely to be obese as adults.
Start with small changes such as:
- Keep fresh fruit within your children’s reach.
- Go on family walks after dinner.
- Shop at your local farmers market for in-season vegetables and fruits.
- Talk with your kids’ teachers and principals about making schools healthier and having physical education classes every day instead of once a week.
- Ask your kids’ pediatricians and school nurses to be leaders in their communities by supporting programs to prevent childhood obesity.
Below is an easy and delicious recipe that is also inexpensive to
prepare. Your kids can help with the
prep work, although Mom or Dad will have to be in charge of the oven.
GROWING HEALTHY KIDS:
Our Recipe Collection
Spinach Tortillas
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons olive or avocado oil
- 1 large yellow or Vidalia onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 1 ounce grated cheese (cheddar, feta, or parmesan)
Directions:
Preheat broiler.
Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over low heat. Add onion and saute about 7 minutes or until
golden. Add spinach and stir until wilted. Stir eggs into the spinach and onion and cook
about 7 minutes or until almost set.
Sprinkle cheese over the top and place in broiler for about 2 minutes or
until bubbling. Remove from oven and let
sit for one minute. Slice and
serve.
NOTE FROM NANCY: This goes
great with a green salad or steamed butternut squash. It also makes a great lunch for school or work the next day, if any is
leftover!
Be courageous. Dare to care. Talk with your family about small steps you can take that can improve your children's weight - and their health. If you need help, send me an email at wellness@growinghealthykids.org.
Together, we can prevent and reverse childhood obesity.
In gratitude,
Nancy L. Heinrich, MPH
Founder, Growing Healthy Kids
