Fit for a Kid - Promoting Healthy Lifestyles for Children

 
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Overweight children and adolescents are at risk for health problems during their youth and as adults. Studies have shown that overweight youth are more likely to become obese as adults.  In addition, overweight youth are at greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease, including:
        
  • high blood pressure
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  • high cholesterol
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  • Type 2 diabetes
Ottawa County, like the rest of the nation, is faced with the challenge of reducing rates of obesity among children.  The Ottawa County Health Department conducted Body Mass Index Screenings on Ottawa County children during both the 2004-2005 and the 2007-2008 school years.  For the results from these studies, click on the links below.

2004-2005 Ottawa County BMI Study Results
2007-2008 Ottawa County BMI Study Results

Are you wondering about your child’s weight status?  One of the best places to find out if your child is obese or at risk for becoming obese is your family doctor. Ask for a Body Mass Index Screening at your child's next check-up. Your doctor can help you examine Body Mass Index (BMI) scores, family risk factors, and lifestyle to determine if your child is at risk. You can also visit the BMI Calculator to determine your child's BMI.

Even if your child is not overweight, it is important to encourage healthy eating and activity in every child. Teaching your child about healthy eating and the benefits of physical activity is something that everyone can do.  Teach your child healthy habits that can last for a lifetime!

In order to make this easier for families, many family-friendly resources have been created that promote healthy eating and physical activity.  Visit the Resources section of this webpage for more detailed information about healthy eating, including healthy snacks, healthy eating on the run, and the importance of fruit and vegetables.

You can also visit the Physical Activity Search Engine to get information about family-friendly opportunities for physical activity in Ottawa County.  You can search by keyword or zip code, and get valuable information including driving directions.  Learn about local opportunities that you might not even know exist right in your backyard!