By now, you have probably heard about Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution; a show on ABC that profiles one man’s efforts to curb childhood obesity in America’s fattest city.  Behind a little added drama and a slight overuse of pensive cuts, the problem here is very real.  While children eating pizza for breakfast and failing to identify a potato makes for interesting television, the stark reality is that they are a generation headed for a fat-laden epidemic.  If trends continue, these kids are projected to live shorter lives than their parents.

Thankfully, the dire straights depicted on Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution have already been addressed in many areas.  Through a generous Grant from the Robert Woods Johnson Foundation and support from local champions, change is already being affected across the country.  Locally, in Birmingham, the Healthy Kids Healthy Communities initiative is carrying out this message.  Here are the main areas of focus.

Education

As with every attempt to change, the key element is, of course, knowledge.  This involves everything from the basics of healthy eating to the proper way to exercise and grow a garden.  A basic understanding of how our bodies work provides a foundation for everything else.  After all, what good is the “how?” if there is no “why?”

Healthy Options

For years, the debate has raged on in schools regarding what options kids should be presented with in the cafeteria.  I personally had a mountain of fried foods as well as pizza at my disposal, and chose poorly pretty much every day of high school.  With all due respect to teenagers and adolescents – they are not the best decision makers.  Choices are great, but it is time that the fryer and manufactured foods be taken off the serving line.  There are ways to make fresh, delicious, as well as cost-effective meals.  The key is getting parents and local officials to get on board with the idea.  That is why the Healthy Kids Healthy Communities initiative has set out to support such a concept.  Local restaurants have even joined the effort to show what this meal can look like.

Healthy Activities

As we all know, diet is 80% of the healthy equation, but the remaining 20% cannot be ignored. As a society, we have been shying away more and more from physical activity.  PE classes are falling by the wayside.  Healthy Kids Healthy Communities seeks to get children moving again, with in school and after school programs.  Additionally, city layouts are being reevaluated to promote alternative modes of transportation.  Bike paths and pedestrian-friendly areas aim to invite families to explore healthy lifestyles.

So what can you do?

Sign the Petition

Show your support for Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution by signing the petition to make local and national changes in governmental regulations.  Those of you who have seen the show are well aware of the stumbling blocks to creating a balanced meal in schools.

Active-ate Your Family

Be a positive influence for those around you, especially children.  The biggest way to do this: quit being lazy.  Quick meals and fast food are easy.  Driving everywhere is easy.  Take the road less travelled.  Set aside time to make fresh, healthy meals.  Get out and walk every now and then!

DoGood!

Matt

Feel free to email me: matt@DoGoodedness.com with questions, suggestions, or if you are interested in writing a guest post!