Childhood Obesity & Nutrition for Children
Childhood obesity is prevalent in Mississippi. According to the Mississippi State Department of Public Health, nearly a quarter of all Mississippi high schoolers are obese. With about 16% of children going a week or more without a vegetable (MSDH), Mississippi children eat less nutritious food and today than in the past. Jamie G. Rawls, MD, with Hattiesburg Clinic – Sumrall Medical Center discussed ways for families to combat Mississippi’s historic childhood obesity rates and help children live healthier lifestyles.
“It really starts with the parents or the adults in the household,” Rawls said. “We are the ones who model that healthy behavior to children.”
Rawls also discussed the importance of ensuring the conversation centers around living a healthier lifestyle, rather than losing weight.
“The focus should be on healthy choices and healthy lifestyles, rather than a diet or losing weight,” Rawls said. “Those tend to be triggering words for our children and can really impact their social and emotional health.”
Rawls also discussed the importance of exercise and said that being active as a family for at least an hour a day is beneficial for both children and adults.
To learn more about living a healthier life, or to schedule an appointment, visit https://www.hattiesburgclinic.com/locations/family-medicine/sumrall/.
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About Hattiesburg Clinic – Sumrall Medical Center:
Hattiesburg Clinic Sumrall Medical Center provides comprehensive evaluation and care to meet the total health needs of each family member. These providers offer prompt, complete assessment of the patient in their home community and are able to obtain and coordinate consultation with other specialists when necessary. Family physicians receive training in six broad areas of medicine: pediatrics, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, surgery and community medicine. Their diverse training allows them to offer continuing, comprehensive care for their patients.
About Hattiesburg Clinic:
Hattiesburg Clinic is Mississippi’s largest privately-owned, multispecialty clinic. Founded in 1963, Hattiesburg Clinic has expanded to include over 450 physicians and providers, along with 2,500 employees, serving patients across more than 17 counties in Mississippi. Hattiesburg Clinic is committed to being the health care provider of choice in the communities we serve.
