By Nutrition Agent Erin Stockton
One of the most pressing health challenges facing children today is childhood obesity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 5 children in the United States is affected by obesity. This condition not only impacts physical health but can also affect emotional well-being, self-esteem, and academic performance.
Childhood obesity is linked to serious health risks such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and joint problems. However, the good news is that small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Families, schools, and communities all play an important role in helping children build healthy habits that last a lifetime.
What Can Families Do?
- Encourage healthy eating: Offer fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and limit sugary drinks and snacks.
- Be active together: Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. Activities like walking, biking, dancing, or playing ball can be both fun and healthy.
- Limit screen time: Encourage children to spend less time on phones, tablets, and television, and more time being physically active or engaging in creative play.
- Set sleep routines: Getting good sleep can prevent problems related to health and behavior.
- Model healthy habits: Children learn best by example. When parents and caregivers make nutritious food choices and stay active, children are more likely to do the same.
What Can Communities Do?
MyPlate Munch Trail Mix
Includes all 5 food groups: Fruits, Vegetables, Grains, Protein, Dairy
Ingredients:
½ cup cubed cheese (Dairy)
1 banana, sliced and freeze-dried or dried (Fruit)
½ cup dried apple slices (Fruit)
¼ cup freeze-dried blueberries (Fruit)
½ cup baby carrots, sliced and oven-dried or dehydrated (Vegetable)
½ cup dry roasted unsalted peanuts (Protein)
1 cup whole wheat cereal (like toasted O’s or shredded wheat) (Grain)
Instructions:
-If not using pre-dried fruit or veggies, dehydrate banana slices, apple slices, blueberries, and carrot rounds until dry but chewy or crisp (use a dehydrator or bake on low heat).
-In a large bowl, gently mix all dried ingredients.
-Add cubed cheese right before serving or keep it separate in a cooler if packing for later.
-Portion into small containers or snack bags for an on-the-go treat!
Erin Stockton is a Nutrition Agent with the LSU AgCenter in DeSoto and Natchitoches Parishes. A certified educator for over 20 years, she provides research-based programs to help families make healthy food choices and stay active. For program requests or questions, contact her at 318-872-0533 or estockton@agcenter.lsu.edu
