What Sort of Role Model Are You?

The National Obesity Forum of the United Kingdom earlier this month announced their recommendation for midwives to measure the body mass index (BMI) of all pregnant women and their partners during the 12-week prenatal visit.  For those found to be obese (BMI over 30), it was further recommended that the expectant parents be counseled on how to change their eating habits, for the sake of their unborn child.  What prompted this recommendation were results of a recent British study, revealing that daughters of obese mothers were 10 times more likely to develop obesity, and sons of obese fathers were 6 times more likely.  Excess weight in these children had typically developed by the age of 5 years.

The vital point of this study is that children will mimick the habits of important role models in their lives.  Parents who have lifestyle habits leading to obesity will most likely pass those habits on to their children, and the obesity pyramid continues.

So, if you are a parent-to-be, or are a parent or grandparent of small children, ask yourself the question "What kind of role model am I for the little ones I love?"  To help yourself answer this question, find out what your BMI is by using the calculator at http://www.nhlbisupport.com/bmi/.  If your BMI is over 30, not only is your own health at serious risk, but you may not be the role model you wish to be.

More later on how to get that BMI in the range you want it to be - less than 25.  But for now, eat more fiber foods, drink 8 glasses of water per day, and don't eat when you aren't hungry.  Also, get a copy of The Full Plate Diet - it will help you jump start your weight loss program.  Visit http://www.fullplatediet.org/ for details on how to order a book, to download a free electronic advance reader copy, or to listen to a free audio version.
  

The author submits this blog posting as a health educator and not in any other capacity. You should seek the advice of your physician regarding a personal health condition or before undertaking any diet, exercise, or other health program.