According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, childhood obesity has doubled in children and tripled in adolescents in the past 30 years. In 2010 a study found one third of children and adolescents were overweight or obese, with Mississippi ranking as the highest state in the nation for childhood obesity.

Dr. Patricia Tibbs, a pediatrician at Ellisville Pediatric Clinic, is working to address the problem of childhood obesity on a local level. “Obese and overweight children are at a higher risk of developing other health problems as they grow older,” states Dr. Tibbs. “The problems can include high blood pressure, increased cholesterol levels, joint problems and mental stress including anxiety, depression and low self-esteem.”

Solving the problem of childhood obesity is not an easy task, yet with education and determination the steps to success are possible. Let’s Move! is an initiative through the White House dedicated to solving the challenge of childhood obesity. By promoting nutritious eating, active lifestyles and development of healthy habits, children can be healthy and achieve their dreams.

Let’s Move! provides five simple steps for children to take action and become active.

1. Move Every Day! – Moving and physical activity for at least 60 minutes throughout the day can decrease stress, provide more restful sleep, build healthy bones, muscles and joints and increase self-esteem.
2. Try a New Fruit or Veggie – Vitamins, minerals and proteins provide the right kind of nutrients that are needed to increase healthy food habits. Drinking 100% juice without added sugar or adding a variety of veggies to salads – corn, carrots and spinach are two healthy food options.
3. Drink Lots of Water – Choosing a tall glass of water instead of sugary sports drinks or carbonated beverages help to decrease calorie intake. Add a splash of 100% juice to water, choose 1% or skim milk or add a slice of lemon or lime to add variety.
4. Do Jumping Jacks to Break Up TV Time – On average children spend more time watching TV or online than running or playing outside. Limit the time in front of TV or video game by adding activity. Jumping jacks, dancing, sit-ups, jogging in place or active house chores are active ideas that add to physical activity.
5. Help Make Dinner – As a family, children and parents are encouraged to shop, cook and eat a meal together. By researching healthy recipes, prepping and preparing together, the family can develop healthy habits together.

Pediatric facilities owned by South Central Regional Medical Center, Ellisville Pediatric Clinic and Laurel Pediatric Clinic, support this life changing initiative. To learn more about childhood obesity and how to help your community, please contact the health care providers at the facilities.

Ellisville Pediatric Clinic – 601.477.3550 
1203 Avenue B, Ellisville      

Laurel Pediatric Clinic – 601.649.3520
234 South 12th Avenue, Laurel