The recent media rush to inform us that our youth are overweight is new, but the problem is not. Weight gain, simply put, happens when the calories eaten exceed the calories burned.

This year we started plotting BMI or body mass index on children middle school and up as well as the occasional elementary student. Body mass is a single line measurement of height and weight for children 2 to 20. If you exceed a BMI of 23, you are considered "overfed," if you exceed 25 you are technically "obese" and may develop blood pressure, heart, or diabetes problems over the years.

We do find that there is a flaw in the system. That is, older adolescents in excellent condition often exceed BMI's of 23 due to weight lifting.

From parents, we often hear "she eats healthily" or "what else can we do since we already schedule sports, dance, karate etc. and there still is homework."

Lifestyles today often contribute to weight gain. First, many young students do not eat a healthy breakfast, if they eat one at all. Second, sports programs often schedule practice or games during the dinner hour, so students eat both before and after and/or eat quickly from fast food restaurants. Third, there is little fiber in the diets of students. The recommended daily amount is 20-25 grams (g). Most cereals (except All Bran, oatmeal, and Raisin Bran) have 3-5 g. Breads rarely exceed 3 g. Finally, TV, computer, and winter contribute to sedentary lifestyle.

What you can do is pay attention to what is really in the family’s diet—and be a model for your children. You can also walk—to school, to town, before or after dinner, even if it’s around the block. In general, children these days are driven too much.

Nothing is perfect when it comes to weight and we are aware and concerned about body image. Small changes in diet and exercise produce positive results that have lifelong benefits.

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