Source: cleburnetimesreview.com
The distance young children live to a fast food restaurant may contribute to their eating habits.
A study in New York City by The Obesity Society, a scientific society dedicated to the study of obesity and its treatment, examined the relationship between proximity to healthy and unhealthy food outlets around children’s homes and their weight outcomes.
A study in New York City by The Obesity Society, a scientific society dedicated to the study of obesity and its treatment, examined the relationship between proximity to healthy and unhealthy food outlets around children’s homes and their weight outcomes.
Living farther than .025 miles — about half of a city block — from the nearest fast food restaurant was associated with lower obesity and obesity/overweight risk and lower Body Mass Index “z scores,” according to the study. Results ranged from 2.5 percent to 4.4 percent decreased obesity.
A total of 3,507,542 student-year observations of height and weight data from the 2009-13 annual FitnessGram assessment of New York City public school students were used, according to the study. BMI “z scores” were calculated, student obesity or obesity/overweight was determined using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention growth charts and these data were combined with the locations of four food outlet types: fast-food restaurants, wait-service restaurants, corner stores and supermarkets to calculate distance to the nearest outlet.
Childhood obesity occurs when a child is well above the normal or healthy weight for his/her age and height, according to the CDC. Behaviors that can influence excess weight gain includes eating high-calorie, low-nutrient foods and beverages; not getting enough physical activity; sedentary activities such as watching television or other screen devices; medication use; and sleep routines.
Keely McCrady, Johnson County AgriLife Extension Service family and community health agent, said without having seen research related to this topic, she can’t say for certain that childhood obesity is directly linked to living near a fast food establishment.
“However, I can say that environment can definitely have an impact on children’s’ health, including their eating habits,” McCrady said. “When looking at the simple matter of convenience, it is likely that families living near fast food restaurants could be consuming more processed foods with higher calorie, fat and sodium contents instead of taking time to prepare healthier food alternatives at home. Over time, those type of food choices could easily take a toll on a child’s health.”
There are a few ways parents can help their children have a healthier diet and avoid childhood obesity, she said.
“For instance, simply utilizing the MyPlate food guide when preparing meals at home is a great start to improving your child’s diet,” she said. “According to MyPlate, half our plates should include fruit and veggies, while the other half should include an appropriate serving of protein and grains. An additional serving of low-fat or fat free dairy rounds out a well-balanced meal.”
Think about the snacks you are providing for your kids, she said.
“Keep fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grain products on hand for snacking and encourage your kids to drink more water in place of sugar-sweetened drinks,” she said. “When your family does decide to eat out at a fast food restaurant, help your kids make conscious food choices: swap out the side of fries for a cup of fruit, replace soda with milk or water and choose a whole grain bread or bun in place of the more processed alternatives. These small choices can add up to equal more nutritious meals.”