It's Simple. Make physical activity a part of your daily routine.

Recently the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD)removed "flavored" milk form the menu at its schools. They are attempting to combat the epidemic of childhood obesity by eliminating extra sugar intake as well as offering healthier breakfast and lunch choices for students (corn dogs, chicken nuggets and other breaded items will soon be gone as well). Several experts claim that the flavored milk adds unnecessary sugar to kids' diets. I found it strange that they did not "86" various juices from the menu as well. There is a lot of sugar in those drinks (be it artificial or natural). Oh yeah, how about the vending machines on campuses that contain sodas, juices and snacks that would be considered unhealthy?

I don't think the obesity problem has so much to do with flavored milk, soda, or corn dogs. The problem exists because of a current generation of youth that lead sedentary lifestyles. Watching television, playing video games, long hours spent on the computer or any other handheld device that has a screen. All of the aforementioned "activities" are done while sitting on your ass and not moving (the extent of movement involves the index finger or the thumbs). "Screen Time" has become the desired activity for many of today's youth thus robbing them of any type of locomotor activity. It is painfully obvious because of the number of kids I've seen that are uncoordinated (unable to skate on FOUR WHEELS let alone two,unable to ride a bike, or even balance on one leg for more than 3 seconds)and have NO endurance (even at the lowest level).

Parents need to "man up" and establish some rules to have your kids become more active. Screen time doesn't have to be eliminated but can be significantly reduced. The same can be done for food choices.Have some open dialogue. It only takes a little time and effort. Please stop blaming McDonald's, Burger King and any other fast food establishment for what they serve. Here's an idea...if you don't want your child/children to eat the fast food, DON'T BUY IT FOR THEM. I know they could eat it when you are not around, but how often is that? Lay down the law, and enforce it.

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