WAPT.com
April 13, 2009
Childhood obesity rates have more than doubled over the years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 17 percent of children ages 2 to 19 years old are obese in the United States, the CDC said.
Health experts fear it could only get worse if more parents don't help their children make healthy lifestyle changes.
In an effort to combat the problem, YMCAs in Mississippi will kick off Healthy Kids Day Saturday to promote wellness, healthy living and nutrition. Organizers encourage parents to make sure children are physically active for at least one hour every day. Health experts say it's a good idea to make sure children are participating in exercises they enjoy so they can get a better workout.