A CHAMPION FOR OUR CHILDREN
I am taking a break from the hunt for healthy fast food today. Kudos to First Lady Michelle Obama for yesterday’s meeting on the epidemic of childhood obesity. ONE THIRD of our children are overweight. Did you know that this generation may be the first to have shorter lifespans than their parents?
As the next generation matures, one of three will be burdened by the chronic diseases associated with obesity such as heart attack, strokes, cancer and Type II diabetes, to name a few. This will drain them of their energy and financial resources, cause shortened life spans and loss of productivity at a time when their country needs their strength and creativity.
These kids don’t have to go through this pain and suffering; all it takes is making appropriate lifestyle changes. I think it is great that Michelle Obama is calling on the feds and the private sector to take part. As another First Lady once said: “It takes a village.” And it does. I just hope that the desire for profit doesn’t short circuit this effort- it is too important.
WHAT CAN I DO?
If you are a parent or educator, one easy step is to eliminate soft drinks. Teens drink an average of 18 to 24 ounces of soda daily. That means between 225 and 300 empty calories and 12 to 16 teaspoons of sugar every day. And there are plenty of other good reasons to stop the soda habit.
I suggest buying a good home water filtration system and using water bottles that don’t leach endocrine disrupters and other chemicals. You and your child will also be doing a good thing for the environment!
There are many on the market; I suggest ONLY bottles that are BPA and Phthalate free. Take a look at the SIGG website. They have been manufacturing these types of bottles for years and it is an educational experience, even if you don’t buy there.
I INVITE QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS FROM PARENTS AND OTHERS WHO MAY STRUGGLE WITH THIS ISSUE. I AM HERE TO HELP.
To Your Health,
Diane
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