A child might say the worst part of being heavy is the teasing, but the health effects of childhood obesity stretch years beyond the playground. That's why it's so important to catch weight problems early before they become a lifelong issue.

Health Concerns
Obese children often develop problems, such as type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which typically don't develop until adulthood. They may also develop learning problems due to sleep apnea, which interrupts breathing during sleep.

Children who are heavy also have a high risk of being heavy as adults, potentially increasing their risk of heart disease and cancer.

Simple Changes
If you think your child has a weight problem, check with your pediatrician. The causes are usually too little activity and too much unhealthy food. But many overweight children don't need to go on a diet. They simply need to be encouraged to eat healthier foods and move around more. As they grow taller, their weight should stay the same or only increase a healthy amount.

Try adopting small, meaningful habits that can last a lifetime:

• Offer healthy choices (fruits and vegetables), instead of just restricting portions.
• Serve healthy meals and snacks for the whole family at the dining table.
• Switch from whole to low-fat milk once children reach age 2.
• Offer water instead of sugary beverages, such as soda.
• Set limits on TV and computer time.
• Plan family exercise times. Go for a walk or bike ride.

Explore ways to stay active and eat healthy. Access a variety of resources online at http://wecan.nhlbi.nih.gov.

Get Fit Las Vegas!
Heather and John Telford lead active lives and want their kids, Shelby and Trent, to do the same. That's why they participate in the YMCA of Southern Nevada's Activate America^® program, which promotes healthy minds, bodies and spirits.

Centennial Hills Hospital Medical Center is partnering with the YMCA of Southern Nevada to address the growing problem of childhood obesity.

"Many kids don't eat right and exercise," said Kevin Stockton, CEO/Managing Director of Centennial Hills Hospital. "We're joining forces with the YMCA to help educate families throughout Las Vegas about the importance of good nutrition and physical activity. Our goal is to help kids develop healthy habits now that will last a lifetime."

The Telfords stay fit as a family by taking walks and attending the program's Family Boot Camp. "I've always been active, and that's what I want to teach my children," Mr. Telford said. "They should think of fitness like brushing their teeth. It's something you do every day."

"This program helps us to stick to our goal, fitness for life!" Mrs. Telford added. "I recommend Activate America as a first step to get off the couch and start moving."

For more information, please visit www.IchooseCentennialHills.com.

The Valley Health System c/o Valley Hospital Medical Center 620 Shadow Lane Las Vegas, NV 89106