September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness month. Obese youth are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. In a population-based sample of 5- to 70% of obese youth had at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease.7 Obese adolescents are more likely to have pre diabetes, a condition in which blood glucose levels indicate a high risk for development of diabetes. Children and adolescents who are obese are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem. An easy way to learn about which foods are lower in fat and calories is to think in terms of GO, SLOW, and WHOA. GO Foods are: Lowest in fat and sugar, relatively low in calories, "Nutrient dense" (rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients important to health, great to eat anytime. Examples include: Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fat-free or milk and milk products, lean meat, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts. SLOW Foods are: Higher in fat, added sugar, and calories. To be eaten sometimes/less often. WHOA Foods are: Highest in fat and added sugar. "Calorie-dense" (high in calories). Often low in nutrients. To be eaten only once in a while/on special occasions, in small portions. For more info go to:
September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness month. Obese youth are more likely to have risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure. In a population-based sample of 5- to 70% of obese youth had at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease.7 Obese adolescents are more likely to have pre diabetes, a condition in which blood glucose levels indicate a high risk for development of diabetes. Children and adolescents who are obese are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem. An easy way to learn about which foods are lower in fat and calories is to think in terms of GO, SLOW, and WHOA. GO Foods are: Lowest in fat and sugar, relatively low in calories, "Nutrient dense" (rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients important to health, great to eat anytime. Examples include: Fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fat-free or milk and milk products, lean meat, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts. SLOW Foods are: Higher in fat, added sugar, and calories. To be eaten sometimes/less often. WHOA Foods are: Highest in fat and added sugar. "Calorie-dense" (high in calories). Often low in nutrients. To be eaten only once in a while/on special occasions, in small portions. For more info go to: