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The Biggest Loser Show tackling childhood obesity this season
The Biggest Loser Show tackling childhood obesity this season
Posted on Jan 11, 2013 by Maggie LaBarbera
I was excited to see the reality show, The Biggest Loser, because it is tackling 
childhood obesity this season. Although there has been a great deal of attention paid to childhood obesity, having a nationally popular show highlight this problem is really going to help build more awareness and support about the habits of our children and, in general, families.
The show is featuring three children, Sonny, Noah and Lindsey, called ambassadors of change. They are called ambassadors of change because by sharing their experience and story, they are representing children across America. Each of the children have their own reasons for wanting to lose weight and their story of how being overweight has affected their life in school and at home. It is really heart-warming and touching but the show does a good job of focusing not on weight but habits, nutrition and lifestyle choices.
The children will not follow the normal "grueling, hardcore" weight loss coaching that the show is known for. Instead, the three children will:
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not be eliminated from the show. Kids will have the show's full support to change their habits all the way to the season finale
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not have grueling workouts every day. Instead, kids will be participating in fun activities that promote burning calories. The goal is to get kids moving with activities that they enjoy doing.
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not be weighed. Instead, children have an endurance fitness test that they took and they will be able to see how their bodies become more fit by the end of the show. For example, how many sit-ups can they do in one minute; how long does it take them to run a mile.
I love the philosophy of each of the coaches and their thoughts about childhood obesity:
Jillain Michaels: "It is about helping the parents understand that they need to do it with the kids. They need to learn how to eat with the kids, they need to learn how to exercise with the kids."
Bob Harper: "It's about getting them to run around and chase a ball and be a kid again." He also emphasizes the need to limit time on computers, ipads, phones and tv.
Dolvett Quince: "It's about educating parents. It's about insisting that the more education parents have, the more successful children are going to be."
But don't worry, the show continues to feature 15 adults that are on teams and will face the scale and challenging workouts and tough love coaching that has made this show so popular.
Parenting Resources:
Articles that focus on the psychology of making healthier choices, featuring Dr Lisa Heinz, clinical psychologist.
Dietitian written articles that helps you promote healthy meals balanced with foods from all the food groups. Tips on what makes a healthy breakfast and ways on getting your child to eat more fruits and vegetables. Healthy articles for families with practical ideas on creating healthy meals for your kids at home and at school.
Facts about the five food groups that create a balanced meal. Dietitians share the foods that make up each food group and how much you need for a healthy plate. Introducing the My Plate which has replaced the My Pyramid.
Most children are deficient in certain nutrients. Our dietitians have some specific advice on the critical vitamins and minerals and how to ensure that they are getting sufficient nutrition. Essential nutrient information and tips to promote a healthy child.
Help your child quench their thirst while avoiding all the unnecessary calories and sugar. Learn about the most sugary drinks and how to help your child choose wisely.
Creating healthy family meals are made from grocery shopping, cooking and eating together as a family. Grocery shopping suggestions from our dietitians on how to buy the healthiest foods. Don't be fooled by marketing claims on the front of the package. Easy steps to a healthier grocery store experience.
Dietitian and nurses' advice for parents to help promote daily family activity. Find ways to add exercise to your child's day during winter and summertime. Tips on how to turn off the tv and help your child find activities that promote a healthy and growing active body.
High sugar and high fat food manufacturers spend millions of dollars to promote their foods to children. Learn the food marketing facts and fiction.
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