Mike Washo, the Nation’s registered dietitian/certified diabetes educator, was instrumental in helping to implement ELC’s NAP SACC program. Part of the program requires self-assessment to judge what is working and areas in need of improvement, and Mike is available to aid in the nutritional and exercise component.

“They really go hand in hand; both healthy eating and physical activity are part of the healthy lifestyle we constantly strive to promote,” said Mike, who gave workshops to the ELC staff on nutrition along with Linda Sevier, fitness coordinator, who provided the fitness tutorials.

Whole grains (pasta, bread, cereal), vegetables, beans, lean meats (chicken, turkey, fish), whole fruits instead of fruit juice (juice loses the fiber and some of the nutrients), low-fat dairy and less processed foods (the fewer ingredients listed on the package, the better) are examples of foods high in nutrients.

“We invite parents in for nutrition and physical activity components because, across the board, we want to promote healthy weight for kids at the ELC and at home,” said Mike. “The NAP SACC program’s goal is to encourage kids to have a healthy lifestyle. With kids, you have to be consistent and let them try different foods multiple times because they have a more acute sense of taste than adults. Try offering them smaller portions.

“Parents and schools are the gatekeepers, deciding what types of food are provided.”

The problem of childhood obesity is relatively recent. Since the 1970s, kids’ weights have nearly tripled. However, because it is a newer phenomenon, ways to combat obesity in childhood are not completely understood; the goal is prevention and that is the intent of NAP SACC.

“We don’t know how aggressive we should be or what’s causing obesity,” said Mike. “There are many factors. Kids exercising less and eating more is the short answer.

“The problem is they are still growing and their caloric requirements are different. We just want to have them eat five servings of fruits and vegetables per day. And parents should monitor high-sugar, high-fat foods like baked goods, as well as watching sweetened beverage consumption and sodium intake."

Many associate baby fat with health however, said Mike. To counter this mindset, Mike warns of the potential health risks associated with obesity that include sleep disorders, diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, liver disease and social problems. But, Mike stresses, a balance must be met.

“It’s all moderation,” said Mike. “No one approach fits all. Everyone’s metabolism is different. But you can increase your metabolism with smaller meals and exercise. It really requires a total lifestyle change to eat well and stay fit.”