Sacred Heart - Inspiring Health

4 I N S P I R I N G H E A LT H ACCORDING TO THE Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, childhood obesity rates have doubled over the last 30 years, and 70 percent of obese 5- to 17-year-olds have at least one risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Get your family on track by cutting out fast food, snacking smarter, and making the GO Chippewa Valley pledge to move for at least 15 minutes each day. EAT THIS, NOT THAT Chances are, you've seen at least one commercial for trendy snack foods, such as yogurt packaged in a squeezable tube, while watching television with your child. Such foods are often marketed toward kids and are touted as healthy options. But should your child really eat them? "Convenience foods can be healthy options, but you should always check the food label," says Heather Krieger, MS, RD, CD, Dietitian at St. Joseph's Hospital. "When you choose a snack for your child, it should contain between 100 and 200 calories, offer a small amount of protein, and provide ample fiber. Also, choose snacks low in sugar that have the fewest ingredients. Foods with more ingredients typically contain more preservatives, which can degrade the nutrient content." Low-fat string cheese, yogurt, and fresh fruits and vegetables are all healthy Just for Kids Scheduled for Wednesday, April 9, Sacred Heart Hospital's 36th annual Fit Kids Pediatric Health Fair will offer second graders throughout Eau Claire and surrounding counties fun, interactive, and age-appropriate opportunities to learn about health, wellness, and disease prevention. As in years past, the Fit Kids Pediatric Health Fair will feature eight health and wellness stations staffed by hospital employees and community members. Topics covered include dental and cardiac health, nutrition, bike and Internet safety, bullying, hand washing, stress management, and tobacco usage prevention. As part of a contest following the two-hour event, children will be instructed to draw a picture about health, wellness, and what the Sacred Heart GO campaign means to them. (GO urges community members of all ages to move for at least 15 minutes each day.) One student from each school will then be chosen to attend an awards night sponsored by Sacred Heart. The 2014 Fit Kids Pediatric Health Fair will be held at the Eau Claire Indoor Sports Center, and one morning and one afternoon session will be offered. To learn more, contact your second grader's teacher. EATING AND EXERCISE HABITS DEVELOPED DURING CHILDHOOD PROVIDE A LIFELONG FRAMEWORK FOR GOOD HEALTH. SET YOUR CHILD UP FOR A HEALTHY FUTURE BY NURTURING A LOVE OF FITNESS AND NUTRITIOUS FOODS. Snack Pact The

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