Empowering Youth with Nutrition and Physical Activity

Children and adolescents can considerably improve their health and quality of life by making physical activity a part of their daily routine. Being physically active early in life has many physical, social, and emotional benefits and can lead to a reduced occurrence of chronic diseases in children and adults. Poor eating habits and not being physically active enough can put anyone at risk of being overweight/obese and increase the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer and other serious health conditions. Regular physical activity contributes to overall health and well-being and reduces the risk of disease such as coronary heart disease, osteoporosis, colon cancer and diabetes in adults. Regular physical activity also helps prevent hypertension and helps reduce blood pressure in persons with elevated levels. Regular physical activity helps children and adolescents develop healthy physical activity behaviors they can sustain throughout their lives. Health professionals, families, and communities need to make a concerted effort to increase the physical activity levels of children and adolescents.

It is important to recognize that children and adolescents need at least 60 minutes of exercise/physical activity each day. You can help by setting a good example. Instead of turning the television on after dinner, encourage a quick game of ball in the yard or take a brisk walk or bike ride as a family. This will not only help your physical well being, but also your mental and emotional well being as a family. Remember physical activity is great for relieving the stress of the daily grind.

Participating in regular physical activity also:

Increases muscle and bone strength.

Increases lean muscle mass and help decrease body fat.

Helps maintain weight and is a key part of any weight loss program.

Enhances psychological well-being.

May reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety and improve mood.

It is important to offer children and adolescents opportunities to make physical activity a regular part of their lives. Participating in any type or amount of physical activity during childhood and adolescence can provide a lifetime of positive health benefits.