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Childhood obesity has become a major public health challenge. The rate of overweight children has more than doubled in the past 30 years for preschool children and adolescents and more than tripled for children ages 6-11. As these numbers increase so do the major health problems associated with being overweight, which can persist into adulthood.

Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and high cholesterol are major health issues caused by obesity. These children will need to have their blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels checked regularly. Other health problems related to obesity can include depression, bone and joint problems, and shortness of breath.

While you cannot control risks such as genetic factors or family history, you can make healthy changes to control some other risk factors for your child:
 
. Talk to your child's pharmacist or doctor about medications that may cause weight gain
. Eat a balanced, healthy diet (less fat and cholesterol, monitoring carbohydrates)
. Take the time to prepare nutritious meals most days of the week
. Regular exercise, limit TV and game playing time
. Control weight, allow child to eat only when hungry
. Know what kids are eating at school
. Reduce child's stress at school or home
. Take medications as directed

Talk to your child about the importance of eating healthy and exercising regularly. Also try to make it a family affair. Your Kroger Family of Pharmacies is here to help meet your healthcare needs. Our professional pharmacists offer personal attention and caring advice about obesity, healthy lifestyle changes, or any other health concern you may have. Our friendly, full-service pharmacies offer convenient hours to meet your busy schedule. From prescriptions and over-the-counter medications to answering your health care questions, Kroger Family of Pharmacies care for you and your family. Also please visit our website, www.kroger.com for reliable, convenient and useful pharmacy and health-related information and more!