About Us    Contact Us    Careers    Site Map    Go
Health Care Services    Hospitals & Facilities    Health Information    Find a Doctor    Why Choose Baptist
 
Home Health Information Healthy Memphis
Healthy Memphis - "Spring into Shape"

 
 
 
Daily Bread
A heart at peace gives life to the body.
Proverbs 14:30
Make Living a Healthy and Active Lifestyle Fun

Childhood obesity is fast becoming an epidemic in the United States. And in Memphis. Often a lack of physical activity and an unhealthy diet are at the root of the problem. But there are some simple strategies families can use to address this issue.

  • Plan regular physical activity for the family, such as taking a walk, visiting parks or the zoo, going roller-skating or other activities.

  • Join your church gym or community center – these are often free or have a minimal fee. And these programs offer structured and unstructured activities.

  • Participate in team sports. Kids can join a school sport or neighborhood activities.

  • Give your kids chores that require physical activity, such as vacuuming, washing the car or mowing the lawn.

  • Limit TV watching.


Parents also can teach their kids to eat healthy. Try the following tips.

  • Make food appealing to your kids (cut sandwiches into shapes, such as teddy bears or stars, using cookie cutters).

  • Cook with your kids.

  • Eat meals together as a family at regular times.

  • Avoid doing other activities during meal times or eating too quickly.

  • Prepare peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

  • Instead of giving your kids prepackaged snacks, make your own, using cheese, low-fat ham or turkey and fruit.

  • Limit your kids to one soda or fewer a day.

  • Encourage your kids to drink water, flavored waters, sugar-free Kool-aid® and 100 percent fruit juices.

  • According to the American Obesity Association, parents should offer the same diet plan to all family members, not select individuals.

Remember, the keys to good health for a lifetime are physical activity and a healthy diet. So join P.D. Parrot, Baptist and the city of Memphis for the Healthy Memphis campaign. For more information about starting new habits for your family and springing into shape, visit www.pdparrot.org.

Top of Page
Health Topic Library
Browse through our online Health Topic Library for general information about more than 1,200 health topics, from allergies to weight control.
More

Baptist Online
Read the latest articles about a variety of health subjects, with many practical tips to help you take control of your health.
More

P.D. Parrot
Kids can have fun learning about health and safety.
More
Home | Health Care Services | Hospitals & Facilities | Health Information | Find a Doctor | Why Choose Baptist
©2008 Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer. Notice of Privacy Practices.
Baptist Memorial Hospital In keeping with the three-fold ministry of Christ - preaching, teaching and healing - Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation will be the leader in providing quality health care.