A new study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine shows that kids in the Southeast states, referred to as the “Stroke Belt,” are fatter than their U.S. peers in other regions. In 2007, 45 percent of 10- to 17-year-olds in Mississippi were overweight, and 22 percent were obese. Not shockingly, the states with the biggest weight problems were also associated with kids watching lots of TV and not partaking in much physical activity.
Oregon, by comparison, has the lowest obesity rates at ten percent, and was the only state to show significant decreases in overweight children during the duration the study between 2003 and 2007, .
So, what is Oregon doing right? We bet it has something to do with an active lifestyle. To learn how to raise healthy, happy offspring and avoid this disturbing obesity trend, check out our guide to raising active kids in the June issue.
— Jennifer L. Schwartz