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Chubby Cheeks

Baby Fat or a Health Hazard?

By Belinda Mooney

Today's kids are just not as active as past generations. There are television shows and computer games aimed at children as young as 1 or 2 – not to mention these shows are often sponsored by companies that promote foods that are simply not healthy. According to the California Food Advocates, it is estimated that the average preschooler watches 25.5 hours of television per week. This age group needs to be moving, playing, running and jumping!

Getting toddlers and preschoolers moving around is the key. "We encourage the families in the schools we work with to go for walks and exercise as much as they can," says Dr. Paula Elbirt, medical director for the Children's Aid Society in New York, N.Y., and advocate of combining exercise with good nutrition in youngsters.

Dr. Joe Risser, with the Lindora Medical Group in San Diego, Calif., agrees that exercise is key but it may involve some planning. "Set up your home environment," he says. "If you have a TV, control it and spend time as a family doing something physically active."

Exercising as a family will benefit everyone. Go for walks on a regular basis, visit the playground or just run around the yard chasing your 3-year-old.The two of you will not only feel better but you will have spent time together too.

Want to see more?

• Check out our Article Library.
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• Talk about it!