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00:17For many children, the school day includes time in the classroom, snacks between lessons and hours spent sitting in front
00:25of screens.
00:25But the habits children develop from an early age can have lasting implications on their health.
00:31In Trinidad and Tobago, the 2017 Global School-based Student Health Survey reported a combined overweight and obesity rate of
00:3951.1% among adolescents aged 13 to 15.
00:44Childhood obesity occurs when a child has excessive body fat that may affect their health.
00:49It can be influenced by a combination of factors including dietary habits, physical activity, genetics and the environment which a
00:58child grows.
00:59A child's weight should be assessed using age-appropriate medical guidelines rather than a parent alone.
01:05Nutrition plays an important role in a child's growth and development.
01:09Meals that include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins can help children get the energy and nutrition they need.
01:17Healthy eating is only one part of preventing childhood obesity.
01:21Children also benefit from regular physical activity, adequate sleep and opportunities to be active throughout the day.
01:28Parents and caregivers advised that preventing childhood obesity does not mean placing children on strict diets or making them feel
01:36uncomfortable about their bodies.
01:38Instead, families can work together to build healthy routines.
01:42Experts say childhood obesity is an issue that requires support from more than just the family home.
01:49Schools, communities and policy makers all have a role to play in creating environments where children can eat well, stay
01:57active and grow up healthy.
01:59And by starting with small consistent changes, families can help build healthier habits that last a lifetime.
02:07I am Charlotte Kistow with tonight's Health Watch.
