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KID HEALTH
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 What is BMI? Body mass index is determined based on a person’s weight and height. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), BMI is a reliable indicator of body fat for most children and teens. While BMI does not directly measure body fat, research has shown that it accurately mirrors more conventional and widely accepted measures, and it’s considered by many health experts to be a simple weight-assessment alternative. Debating the data Several states, following the lead of Michigan, are initiating plans that direct doctors to measure and report the body mass index of their patients under age 18 and provide the data to various state registries. Although helping to curb the rise of childhood obesity and assisting doctors to be more proactive in offering advice, the controversial measure is facing strong opposition. Opponents of the measure argue that because BMI itself is calculated using the child’s height and weight only, it excludes the exact measurements of other variables. “Perhaps some are concerned that our constitutional rights are being violated,” says Dr. Dian Griesel, who, along with Tom Griesel, authored the new book, “TurboCharged: Accelerate Your Fat Burning Metabolism, Get Lean Fast and Leave Diet and Exercise Rules in the Dust” (April 2011, BSH). “With childhood obesity on the rise and the risk factors associated with it, we should all be concerned,” says Dian Griesel. “One reason is that obese children often stay obese as adults. The cost of the obesity epidemic is already enormous and is stressing our healthcare system.” Tom Griesel cautions that if parents do not recognize the severity of the problem or do not know what to do about it, some sort of intervention is necessary. “Otherwise, we are condemning the future generations of our country and the world to a host of preventable chronic diseases,” he says. “If you or your children are currently obese or overweight, you need to take responsibility and take the appropriate action to turn things around. If you don’t, you shouldn’t be surprised when ‘Big Brother’ or someone else steps in.” DEVELOP HEALTHY EATING HABITS One part of balancing calories involves eating foods that provide adequate nutrition and an appropriate number of calories. You can help your children learn to be aware of what they eat by developing healthy eating habits, looking for ways to make favorite dishes healthier, and reducing calorie-rich temptations. There’s no great secret to healthy eating. To help your children and family develop a smart diet: • Provide plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole-grain products. • Include low-fat or non-fat milk or dairy products. • Choose lean meats, poultry, fish, lentils and beans for protein. • Serve reasonably sized portions. • Encourage your family to drink lots of water. • Limit sugar-sweetened beverages and those with high-fructose corn syrup. • Limit the consumption of sugar and saturated fat. • Get creative with cooking; try new things and get the kids involved. Going to the farmers market as a family to sample and buy fresh produce can help introduce everyone to new taste options. Remember: Small changes every day can lead to a recipe for success! For additional information, visit choosemyplate.gov. |
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