Our Medical Library

Obesity in children has become a nationwide epidemic. The increase has been linked to multiple causes including decreased physical and outdoor activity, increased screen time (video games/TV/computer), and increased caloric intake.

Children and Adolescents should have at least 30-45 minutes of brisk physical activity daily. You can incorporate this by enrolling in organized sports, increasing outdoor play time, or partaking in daily family walks. Screen time should be limited to 2 hours per day total.

Dietary considerations are extremely important. The easiest way to cut calories from your children’s diet is to not let them drink excessive calories. Juices, sports drinks, or sodas should be limited to no more than 6 ounces per day total if not completely eliminated. Children ages 2 and up should be drinking 1% or skim milk and no more than 24 ounces in a day.

Making small changes at home can have a large impact on your child’s health.