How Healthy Are Minnesota's Kids?
Published Date: 07-02-2009 06:21 PM CT
Trust for American's Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation have released studies in the past on the levels of overweight and obese adults.Last year Minnesota ranked 30th fatest in the study at 24.8 percent.This year the state dropped a spot, but gained percentage at 25.3 percent.This year the study included children age 10 to 17 as well, with Minnesota tied for 50th with the lowest percentage of overweight kids at 23.1 percent.News 12's Erick Lind has more.With a recent report that Minnesota children are tied for the least overweight in the nation, you would think the state could celebrate.Mankato Clinic Dietician Doctor Angela Townsend says it's wrong to think of it as winning a contest.She says it's wonderful to hear, but not truly good news.Dr. Townsend says, "..."Doctor Townsend says people don't want to hear their child is overweight, and she often gets arguments from some parents.She says school lunches have been a focus from parents and physicians alike.She says children aren't always going to be able to make healthy decisions on their own.That's why parents need to set the right example especially with a higher obesity rate in adults.Dr. Townsend says, "You know, having a 25 percent rate in adults is not good, because those adults have a huge influence on these children, so if mom and dad eat healthy, the kids eat healthy."Nutrition is important, but the level of activity could be even more so, and the YMCA says they are seeing more parents looking to work out with their kids.YMCA Wellness Director Joy Leafblad says, "Families come in and they may use the pool together, or a basketball court, or go for a walk or a family bike ride, and that's another great way to strengthen your family as well as to get activity in."Leafblad says the more they see children get active early, the more often they keep active later in life.While Minnesota appears to get good marks in the latest survey, Doctor Townsend hopes it doesn't make families relax.Dr. Townsend says, "We need to say, 'Hey, Good we've got some momentum, and strive to do the best for our future leaders."If more adults keep being the positive role models, the state could be on top of the country once again, with an even lower percentage of children overweight next year.In Mankato, Erick Lind, News 12.
|
© 2007 United Communications Corp. All rights reserved.
Portions Copyright 2007 The Associated Press
Portions Copyright 2007 CBS, Inc.
|
|
|
