A new report finds childhood obesity is on the rise in California. The Golden State ranks in the lower third of states for childhood obesity, according to the annual Kids Count Report by the Annie E. Casey Foundation.
“We’re amongst the worst states, we rank 38th in the nation [among the 50 states],” said Kelly Hardy, health and research director for the non-profit Children Now. The organization helped compile the report.
Statewide, the percentage of 10 to 17-year-olds who are overweight or obese jumped from 31% in 2018-19 to 35% in 2020-21.
It’s higher in Los Angeles County, where 37% of children aged 10 to 17 are overweight or obese. Hardy cites a lack of access to safe areas to play and nutritional food.
“Obesity rates have been climbing for years, this isn’t just a pandemic problem,” she said.
Tips to Prevent Childhood Obesity From the CDC
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- Teach kids how to eat healthy – Help your children get the nutrients they need by making half their plate fruits and vegetables. Help kids rethink their drink by replacing sugary drinks, such as soda, fruit drinks, and flavored milk, with water, 100% juice, or plain low-fat milk.
- Move more, together – Children aged 3–5 years should be physically active throughout the day. Children aged 6–17 years need at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Walk the dog, go for a hike, or ride bikes as a family.
- Set consistent sleep routines – Good sleep helps prevent type 2 diabetes, obesity, injuries, and problems with attention and behavior. Sticking to a consistent sleep…
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