September is Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. The Y helps families incorporate healthy eating habits and physical activity into everyday routines that can reverse a trend that leads to childhood obesity.
“Our YMCA is committed to helping families get healthy together,” said Susan Pettengill, Vice President of Healthy Living. "We know it can be a challenge. That’s why the YMCA of the Triangle offers resources inside our YMCAs and out.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that nearly one in three children in North Carolina is overweight or obese. Those statistics have almost tripled in the last 30 years. Left unchecked, obesity puts children at risk for many chronic diseases including prediabetes and diabetes.
RESOURCES AT THE Y
Each day at the Y, thousands of kids get their daily dose of exercise. “In all YMCA youth programs, we incorporate activities that keep kids moving,” said Kim Keith, Vice President of Youth Development.
The YMCA offers nutrition counseling. We bring in licensed nutritionists who can work with you and your family to develop better eating habits and healthy recipes.
The 5210 Healthy Hero program offers ideas and activities you can do at home to increase healthy eating and active living.
“Whether it’s a summer day camp, a youth sports program or an after school program, we’re helping children develop healthy habits that last a lifetime,” said Kim.
Evidence-based programs like Healthy Weight and Your Child focus on healthy eating, physical activity and setting goals.