My Smiling BrandonFast food isn't always a no-no, but can be depending on what it is you are eating. Fried foods and fat filled quickies can cause lots of damage. When I took my son for a check up, the Doctor asked how often do we eat at (Name omitted), so I don't get sued. I was appalled. I was like, "What kind of mother do you think I am?!?!?" I don't take them there all the time. I couldn't afford it anyway. That is a blessing in its self.

He gave me a sheet with information about childhood obesity. That was a wake up call for me. I knew he was chubby and adorable, but I didn't realize the health risks involved. I never thought my child was obese. The scales say differently and so did my doctor. He was kind of nice about it, stating that I should take charge now before it becomes a bigger problem.

My doctor informed me that my child can suffer from diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. These can also be problems when they grow up. He also said that cancer and arthritis may form in adulthood. Heart attack risks increase also. Very scary for me as a mom.

As a parent, I have the power and responsibility to fix this now and reduce these risks. Another sad fact is that my child is self conscious. I saw this over the summer when he wouldn't go swimming without a t-shirt on. I asked him why and he told me because he didn't want the kids to call him fat or see his rolls. That broke my heart and made me cry.

I was trying to find a definition for Childhood Obesity, amazingly no one can decide the guidelines. There is general information on the subject found here. The doctor asked me how long does he sit in front of the television. Amazingly, the answer was "not much". My 11 year old, that has to be peeled from the screen and forced to go out, is about 80lbs soaking wet. He is tall and skinny. My youngest, who I am speaking of as being overweight, is constantly running around the yard, riding his bike, always doing something active. It kind of has me confused.

My preliminary findings are telling me to definitely make healthier snacks and meals, and to be the fridge police too. I have to watch what they eat and how much. Getting the kids involved with the snack making is a great way to teach them about the benefits of healthy foods. Play a game when cleaning and cutting vegetables. Have them name what vitamins come from them and their value. You can make little cue cards with pictures on them to help them remember.

Don't forget a healthy dip for the veggies, not just the usual fat filled dressings. Here is a recipe for a yummy yogurt dip you can eat with the veggies. All you need is:

  • 1 8oz container of plain, low fat or non fat yogurt
  • 1 packet of Good Seasons Italian Dressing mix

Combine the two ingredients and mix well. Chill for about an hour so all the flavors go through. It makes a yummy ranch dressing with less fat than sour cream. If you don't like yogurt you can use low-fat sour cream instead. There are many low fat and diet items out there, you just have to find something that you like. I am still looking for things I can pass off on my kids. Here is link to a few more low fat dip recipes you might enjoy.

Now that it is January 4, 2008, I no longer have any excuses not to get this healthy eating project in motion. My husband is still skeptical, but I know I can do this. It is going to take a little work on my part. Enjoy the day and eat Healthy!