June 14th, 2017
Parent Talk
**formerly known as the Weekly Chatter
1 in 5 Americans 6-19 years old has obesity
Since the 1970s, the number of obese children in the United States has more than tripled, according to the CDC.

Recent research suggests that part of the problem is too many young kids today are regularly going without vegetables and are more likely to eat french fries than green vegetables on any given day.

In a recent radio interview, board certified in Obesity Medicine, ACPeds member Dr. David Olson was asked to share his take on obesity in America and how parents can establish healthy habits for their children. Click here to listen to his radio interview.

To best combat obesity in your home, focus on instilling healthy eating habits instead of appearance and weight.


  • Set a good example by eating vegetables and serving them with every meal. This teaches kids good eating habits early on that they will continue into adulthood.

  • Offer vegetables for snack, especially when other children are around. Kids are more likely to eat vegetables they've seen repeatedly, especially if they've seen friends, siblings and parents eat them, studies show. 
  • Refrain from forcing children to finish all of their food at every meal. Research shows children have to learn on their own when they've had enough. 

More on preventing child obesity
Sunscreen tips for safe, summer fun
About 1 out of 3 sunscreens tested in  a recent Consumer Reports  study provided less than half the SPF protection claimed on the label.

SPF is the measure of how well a sunscreen protects against ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which are  the major cause of sunburn  and also contribute to cancer.
 
To best protect your children from sun damage, remember the following when selecting and applying sunscreen:
  • Choose lotion over spray. Sprays are easy to breathe in and can irritate the lungs. They also make it hard to tell if enough sunscreen has been applied. Click here for top rated sunscreens of 2017.

  • Select an SPF of 30 or higher to prevent sunburn and tanning, both of which are signs of skin damage.
  • Use about 1 oz (about 2 tablespoons) and reapply every 2 hours.
In addition to applying sunscreen, children should...
  • Cover Up with long-sleeved shirts, long pants and skirts whenever possible as they can provide protection from UV rays. Choose hats that shade the face, scalp, ears, and neck.
  •  Seek Shade especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

 

For more information
Being a Responsible Citizen                           
#WeeklyBlogPost
Marriages and families are fundamental units of a healthy society.

One of the most crucial, challenges of our society today is the need to promote family life and strengthen the institution of marriage.

For ideas on how people can support the strengthening of marriage and families in their communities,

and  please, leave a comment! 

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Don't hesitate to contact us with your questions and comments. We look forward to hearing from you.
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