Saturday, April 30, 2011

Dr. Oz: The National Childhood Obesity Crisis


As a father and a physician, I am thrilled to see the Obama administration addressing one of the most pressing issues for the next generation – the fight against childhood obesity. Michelle Obama’s initiative has made big headlines, bringing light to this urgent national crisis.

The statistics are shocking. Childhood obesity has nearly tripled in prevalence in the last 30 years. The extensive list of complications facing children who suffer from obesity includes diabetes, abnormal cholesterol, high blood pressure, asthma and sleep disorders. Even more frightening is the fact that these conditions are likely to follow children into their adult lives. The fat cells that children deposit at young ages stay with them as they grow. This means that extraneous fat cells will be impossible to remove and will burden these children for the rest of their lives.

On my show we welcome a young girl who is heading down that dangerous road. Lillie is 4 years old and weighs 85 lbs. We sit down with her parents, Heather and Mike, and discuss the emotional issues that attribute to Lillie’s obesity. We lay out an action plan that focuses on making wellness a family affair. The example that Heather and Mike set as parents is essential to Lillie developing healthy eating habits.

Like so many, Heather, Mike and Lillie were struggling with these issues privately. However, there are some who battle weight and obesity under public scrutiny. We welcome pop singer and TV personality, Carnie Wilson. Carnie’s struggle with food began when she was only 4 years old. At such a young age, she was already dealing with sugar cravings. As her children grow, Carnie senses the urgency to take back her health.

The fight to end childhood obesity begins with adults. If you feel like your child may be obese talk to a pediatrician. They can map out an individualized weight assessment and if necessary, work with you to create a personal treatment plan. A healthy family is a blessing that comes with responsibility, as a nation, we need to step up.

For more information about Michelle Obama’s initiative, click here.

Friday, April 22, 2011

Happy Earth Day! Happy Easter!

It's Earth Day again. Have we learn anything yet?
I hope somewhere during your day you manage to do something green. What a great day for "Tree Huggers" like me, who get the opportunity to share my love for the glory of God with others. Well, you know we are all connected. To love the Lord is to appreciate your fellow-man. Really. "Vive la difference!"

OK, so the perfect day of leisure for me is one spent outdoors on a sunrise hike to the top of a mountain, near streams and a lake. Or, a day spent at sea, or looking at the ocean. Add to that a suspenseful book, citrus fruits, seltzer and some chili to share with my friends. That to me is a fun day celebrating the planet earth.

I don't care if it sounds cheesy and cliché. I still think its fun! -What is your idea of the perfect day of leisure? I hope you get to do it this weekend, if not today. Just make certain "you have a great one" no matter what you decide to do!

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

The First Lady Introduces Let's Move!

What a fabulous program!
The President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition (PCFSN) mission is to engage, educate and empower all Americans across the lifespan to adopt a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity and good nutritionThe President's Challenge helps people of all ages and abilities increase their physical activity and improve their fitness through research-based information, easy-to-use tools, and friendly motivation.


The Presidential Active Lifestyle Award (PALA) program allows people of all ages to receive presidential recognition. The program is designed to motivate participants to be physically active on a regular basis by allowing them to participate in activities they enjoy. With a list of over 100 possible activities, that’s easy to do! To support your commitment to improving the quality of your life and your loved ones, becoming a Preferred Customer is a smart choice for you to make for the savings advantage paired with convenience.


Below: Dominique Dawes shows her support for First Lady Michelle Obama's initiative.