Bay Area Childhood Obesity Rates Report

A report just released by UCLA and California Center for Public Health released this report about the childhood obesity rates in the bay area.

I live in the bay area so I was most interested in what the latest findings would be.  I was very sad to see how many children in my area are overweight or obese.

Huntington Beach had the highest percentage in the entire state of California coming in with 53%.  

• Burlingame: 24.4 percent
• Millbrae: 24.8 percent
• Menlo Park: 26.1 percent
• San Carlos: 29.2 percent
• Foster City: 29.9 percent
• Pacifica: 33.1 percent
• San Mateo: 33.2 percent
• Redwood City: 37.4 percent
• Daly City: 39.2 percent
• San Bruno: 43.4 percent
• South San Francisco: 47 percent

I try not to focus on numbers and body image.  I think we can better help kids and parents make healthier choices by focusing on the healthy foods and being active.

It may surprise you that small changes do add up to a healthier child.

Start with simple goals that the family agrees upon.  It is probably best to work on one or two goals at a time.  

If you keep positive and work together as a family, you will notice changes.

But you notice I say family and not child.  No one wants to feel singled out.  Changing habits starts at home and it starts with the whole family regardless of weight.  

Here are some resources to help you get started: