New Program Fosters Healthy Eating Habits and Combats Childhood Obesity

The Lifestyle Journey Program encourages healthy eating habits to prevent childhood obesity.

(/PRWEB ) January 5, 2006 -- With the rise in childhood obesity and the increased risk of many obesity-related health problems, The Lifestyle Journey Program promotes healthy eating and lifestyle habits. This program empowers kids and families to create long-term healthy habits; it is not simply another weight loss program geared towards individuals who are overweight. All families can benefit from The Lifestyle Journey Program.

The recent release of the report “What We Eat in America,” (an integrated report combining surveys conducted by both the USDA and the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services) shows that almost a third of Americans get too little Vitamin C, almost half get too little Vitamin A, more than half get too little magnesium and 92-97 percent get too little fiber and potassium. These particular nutrients are important because they help lower the risk of major health diseases such as cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes, which are also related to obesity. Studies also reveal that the average 13- to 18-year-old male drinks two cans of soda a day (the equivalent of 70 pounds of sugar a year) and that on average, teens and children consume fast food three to four times a week, which could lead to childhood obesity and a weight gain of as much as 12 pounds per year. It is possible that today’s generation of young people may not out-live their parents, as a result of obesity and the early onset of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Based on reports such as What We Eat in America and with statistics showing how many people are overweight or obese, we felt there was a need to reach out to families within their own homes to help them foster healthy eating habits and positive long-term lifestyle choices

“Based on reports such as What We Eat in America and with statistics showing how many people are overweight or obese, we felt there was a need to reach out to families within their own homes to help them foster healthy eating habits and positive long-term lifestyle choices,” states Steve Coons, one of the co-Creators of The Lifestyle Journey Program.”

The Lifestyle Journey Program has been used in both U.S. and Canadian schools, with over 15,000 students using the program this year. The program is dietitian-reviewed and physician-endorsed.

Kevin Murdoch, the program’s other co-Creator states, “In schools that have used the program, there has been such great feedback; however, by creating this home-based version of the program, we can support even more families to lead a healthy lifestyle and all the benefits it has to offer.”

Students that have used the program have reported higher intakes of calcium-rich foods, fruits and vegetables, whole grain foods, healthier snacks as well as increased levels of physical activity. Parents also report noticeable changes in their son or daughter’s daily food choices.

About The Lifestyle Journey Program:
Building on the widespread use of the program in schools throughout the U.S. and Canada, young people are empowered to develop their own Healthy Living Plan. Participants track their daily food and activity choices and use hands-on tools to develop healthy eating habits. Participants also have opportunities to participate in coaching sessions and receive ongoing support as they work through the 5 phases of the program. The Lifestyle Journey Program helps discourage childhood obesity through activities that encourage healthy eating and positive lifestyle choices.

Contact:
Steve Coons or Kevin Murdoch
Ideas for People – Creators of The Lifestyle Journey Program
PH (Toll-Free): 1-866-660-6659
http://www.lifestylejourney.com

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