September: National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

One in 5 children in the United States is obese. Childhood obesity puts kids at risk for health problems that were once seen only in adults, like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

The good news is that childhood obesity can be prevented. In honor of National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, Wood County Hospital encourages your family to make healthy changes together.

Get active outside: Walk around the neighborhood, go on a bike ride, or play basketball at the park.
Limit screen time: Keep screen time (time spent on the computer, watching TV, or playing video games) to 2 hours or less a day.
Make healthy meals: Buy and serve more vegetables, fruits, and whole-grain foods.
Choose nutritious snacks: Try whole grain crackers with low-fat cheese, or blend fruit and yogurt with ice to make a tasty smoothie.

Taking small steps as a family can help your child stay at a healthy weight.