The number of kids considered obese in this country has tripled over the last generation. But doctors have found a new way to fight it - through "mom." New research shows if moms want to make sure their kids maintain a healthy weight, they'll need to keep a closer eye on their own eating habits.
Nearly one out of every six kids in this country is now considered obese. But some doctors see even higher numbers. "The rates of both overweight and obesity combined, can be as high as 40% of all the kids that come here at a variety of ages. So, it's a big, big problem and could really impact on their future life," says Dr. Judy Groner of Nationwide Children's Hospital.
So researchers decided instead of focusing on the weight of the kids, they should look at the eating habits of their mothers. "It's been shown many times that, in the family, the mother is the powerful driver behind family health changes," says Dr. Robert Murray, also of Nationwide.
So when some kids came in for well visits, doctors spent part of their time talking to mom about what, and when she was eating. The idea is to first help moms establish healthy eating habits, hoping their kids will benefit by following their example. "We try to plan our meals accordingly so that it's things we can both eat and that she can eat. Low fat, we try to have a very balanced diet with fruits, vegetables and lean meats," says working mom, Lainie Bradshaw.
The study shows moms who have healthy eating habits have healthier kids. And it all starts with those first few visits to the doctor's office. "Parents are bringing their babies to you and asking for some guidance around nutrition. Be clear about what that guidance is. Be specific about what it is," says Dr. Murray. "And hoping that, down the road, the children would start to eat more organized meals, plan snacks, and have less of this constant grazing all the time that can lead to obesity," says Dr. Groner.
In this study, researchers followed 300 kids during their first year. They say they would next like to include even more families, and follow kids until they are two-years-old to see if those good habits last even longer.
