We all know that obesity is a growing epidemic. Not only adults, but our children are at risk. The co-morbidities associated with obesity are now showing up in what our children are prescribed by their physicians – blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetic medications. It is no longer unusual for a 10 year old to be on a cholesterol-lowering drug or for 13 year old to be diagnosed with Type II diabetes, a rare occurrence 20 years ago. This issue cannot be ignored or we will all pay the cost, both in terms of our healthcare dollars to the quality of future generations.
How did we get here? A combination of food industry practices, media, access and the psychosis of a fast-paced, continuously changing, economically challenging society that calls for everyone to multi-task, work long hours and eat on the run. Food portions have doubled and sometimes tripled in size from 20 years ago. What was once a “normal size” 8-ounce soda is now a 20-ounce soda with over 15 teaspoons of sugar in the drink! We have exchanged the dinner table for the fast food lane – and not just dinner, but for breakfast and lunch as well.
What is being done about this epidemic? Local, state and federal programs are beginning to crop up. The National Institute of Health has recently developed a program called “We Can” which stands for Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity and Nutrition. At Martin Memorial, we are continually exploring what we can do to provide our community with services that address youth obesity. We are partnering with the local public health department, area extension offices, pediatricians and wellness businesses under the “We Can” banner to promote the program at area schools, YMCAs, boys and girls clubs, and Parks and Recreation.
The Martin Memorial Center for Health and Healing developed a 6-week HealthyLIFE Youth Weight Management program which combines physical activity with nutrition education. The program targets overweight youth who are at risk for diabetes, but is open to anyone who wants to participate.
All participants undergo cholesterol screening, a fitness assessment and metabolic rate analysis. Sessions include fitness activities and fun games such as dodgeball. The educational portion includes healthy cooking, reading food labels, portion control and a supermarket tour. The next session begins during spring break on March 31.
This session requires that parents attend every session, as we recognize that it has to be a whole family affair in order to create a healthier environment for the child. Parents will receive all the screenings as well. To find out more about this program, call the center for health and healing at (772) 223-4916.
--Lani Kee, MS
Manager, Martin Memorial Center for Health and Healing
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