September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month.
Cheri Kiefer is Health Communities Coordinator with the Division of Nutrition and Physical Activity. She says one in three children in the United States is overweight or obese, which sets them up for health complications later in life.
"The rates keep going up, unfortunately, putting kiddos at a greater risk for secondary health risks like type two diabetes, high blood pressure and high blood pressure that could unfortunately last into adulthood if children don't take preventative measures early on, and families don't encourage activity and healthy eating."
Kiefer says it is recommended that children be active for at least 60 minutes a day - doing activities like biking, walking, running, swimming or playing sports. She says parents should try to limit screen time to just two hours daily, and encourage healthy eating by making food together as a family. Kiefer also says children should be drinking more water instead of sugary-sweetened beverages.