31st MDG classes help fight childhood obesity Published Feb. 22, 2013 By Airman 1st Class Briana Jones 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy -- According to the 31st Medical Group, childhood obesity in Aviano is on the rise. The 31st MDG offers classes to help parents combat the situation. Currently there are 690 children enrolled at Aviano schools. Within the last twelve months, approximately 150 of them have been diagnosed as being overweight or obese. "Healthy eating drastically impacts the child's present and future lifestyle habits which ultimately affect the child's long-term health and fitness," said Senior Airman Lane Franklin, 31st Aerospace Medicine Squadron diet therapy technician. "Establishing healthy eating habits in childhood ensures that they will retain these foundational blocks for their whole life." According to a study done in 2012 by the American Heart Association, one in three children from ages 2 through 19 are overweight or obese. In the United States alone adolescent obesity has tripled since 1990. "There are plenty of happenings on base and off, the problem is just getting the word out about the things off base such as roller blading, soccer, and dancing," said Kevin Egger, 31st Aerospace Medicine Squadron exercise physiologist. Recently the 31st Medical Group informed parents and children from Team Aviano about the dangers of childhood obesity and how they can promote healthy eating, fitness and wellness in their children's lives during a seminar last month at the Aviano Department of Defense Dependents School. To help children stay fit, Team Aviano and the local community offer several ways for them to stay active. Many local activities are available, including: Aviano Roadrunners Club-http://www.avianoroadrunners.org/ Cycling Club- http://www.scfontanafredda.it/ Rollerblading Organization- info@skatingclubcomina.it According to American College of Sports Medicine, children should accumulate at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. In addition to the numerous preventative health benefits exercise offers, higher physical activity levels are linked with better academic performance. When asked why he thought fitness was important, Ayden, son of Capt. Monica Beebe, 31st AMDS health care integrator, said "for me eating healthy helps me stay in shape for basketball." Parents that suspect their child has an eating disorder or health problem should seek advice from the appropriate medical authorities. For more information regarding childhood fitness, contact the HAWC at 632-4573 or the Dragon Fitness Center at 632-7459 and the Falcon Fitness Center at 632-7574. To find out more information on fitness, visit: http://www.choosemyplate.gov/