Combatting Childhood Obesity

Recently, we have all been bombarded with the fact that there is an epidemic of childhood obesity in the US. Seemingly gone are the days when kids gathered to play sports without any adult supervision or organization. With the advent of video games and big-screen, high definition TV, it is a sedentary life style for the majority.

The saddest part about childhood obesity is that it usually leads to adult obesity. As I have gotten older, I can attest that it is much easier to put on pounds than to take them off. It is hard. This whole subject is so complicated and is certainly different for every individual.

Rather than harping on the reasons for this epidemic, my purpose rather is to tout two cookbooks currently on the market designed to offset childhood obesity. In the Kitchen with Kids is a collection of recipes from members of Junior Leagues around the country. These recipes are from the mom’s of young children who understand the need for healthy and nutritious foods—and yet, they’re recipes that kids like.

Each recipe is illustrated with how-to steps and a hero shot of the finished dish. Buying this book doubles in its reward, because the profits support the Kids in the Kitchen educational program conducted by these Junior Leagues, which concentrates on food and nutrition in their local communities. The program was developed by the local Leagues and the Association of Junior Leagues International.

The second book is No Whine with Dinner by Registered Dieticians Liz Weiss and Janice Newell Bissex, also known as the Meal Makeover Moms. Both of these ladies hold Master of Science degrees along with their RD certification. Under the umbrella of Meal Makeover Moms, these ladies have created an adorable cookbook of kid friendly, appetizing, and nutritious recipes to fit any palate. The book is also loaded with valuable nutritional and product information. Personally, I love this book.

Please feel free to share your stories on what you do to insure your children’s health.