1. National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

2. Childhood Obesity Stats
More than 23 Million children and teenagers in the U.S. are obese or overweight.
The obesity rate has MORE than tripled over the last 35 years.
Childhood obesity is an epidemic in our country.

3. Health Complications from Obesity
Type 2 diabetes-With type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn't produce enough insulin, or it resists insulin. Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, hunger, fatigue, and blurred vision. In some cases, there may be no symptoms.
High Blood Pressure-A condition in which the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Over time, if untreated, it can cause health conditions, such as heart disease and stroke.
Heart Disease / Stroke-Heart conditions that include diseased vessels, structural problems, and blood clots. Damage to the brain from interruption of its blood supply. Symptoms of stroke include trouble walking, speaking, and understanding, as well as paralysis or numbness of the face, arm, or leg.

4. Lifestyle Causes
There are many causes for this epidemic. It is clear that genetics play a role in obesity but there are many other areas that we can control.
Fast Food and Vending Machines – Unfortunately a high number of school have vending machines right in the lunch room for kids to buy unhealthy snacks. Pair this with the overwhelming presence of fast food companies and it is easy for our kids to over consume.
Packing Lunch is the best way to avoid over eating at school!

5. Lifestyle Causes
Transportation – Children are taken to school by bus or car instead of walking. Using a bike or walking to and from a friends house or school can go a long way for better health.
Limiting Screen Time – Now more than ever kids are in a sedentary state for all of their forms of entertainment. Video games, cell phone use, television, and computers dominate a child's life and play a major role in how they are raised.
Planning screen-free activates for your children is a must to promote a healthy lifestyle!

6. How to Get Involved
Speak Up - Bring the message back to your state, city, workplace, and home. Brainstorm with friends and family to find way to stay active and plan fun activities.
Set an Example - Children emulate their role models and as a parent, you are possibly their biggest. By living a healthy lifestyle and staying active you encourage better living and eating habits for your kids.

7. Ideas to Implement Avoid using food as a reward.
There are many things you can continue to do to help your child prevent or beat this disease!
Always encourage moderation
Portion sizes have increased considerably over the last few decades.
Avoid using food as a reward.
Encourage your child to eat a variety of foods and provide them with healthy and low-fat snacks.
Encourage playing outdoors.

8. Resources http://www.healthierkidsbrighterfutures.org/about/