Childhood obesity is a public health problem that disproportionately affects Latino families in Chicago. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and the Chicago Department of Public Health show that the prevalence of obesity in Latino children exceeds the national average, due to a number of interrelated factors.
One of the main determinants is the limited access to fresh, nutritious food in many neighborhoods, commonly referred to as “food deserts.” In these areas, the abundance of convenience stores and fast-food restaurants-which offer highly processed, high-calorie foods-foster unhealthy eating habits. In addition, misinformation about nutrition and lack of food health education reinforce this problem from an early age.
Contributing factors
Childhood obesity is not only an individual problem; it is also the result of several community factors:
Unhealthy eating: Excessive consumption of fast foods and sugary drinks is common in many families.
Lack of physical activity: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC), less than 25% of children get enough daily physical activity.
Limited access to fresh food: In low-income communities, such as some areas of Chicago, finding fresh fruits and vegetables can be a challenge.
Local resources
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
Greater Chicago Food Depository: Offers access to fresh food and educational programs to learn how to cook healthy meals.
Urban Growers Collective: An organization that works to bring mobile markets with fresh produce to Latino neighborhoods.
FREE PHYSICAL CLASSES
Chicago Park District: Provides sports, yoga and swimming classes for children at local community centers.
Latino Health Initiative: Offers programs focused on promoting exercise among Latino children.
NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING
Esperanza Health Centers: Community clinics offering medical evaluations and nutritional counseling.
Alivio Medical Center: Specializing in working with Latino families to improve their overall health.
Practical advice
SIMPLE CHANGES IN FOOD
Cooking at home: Involve children in the preparation of healthy meals.
Reduce soft drinks: Replace them with water or natural infusions.
Control portions: Use small plates to help children eat in moderation.
PROMOTES PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Walk together: Make walks a daily family routine.
Enroll children in sports activities: Team sports also strengthen social skills.
LIMITS SCREEN TIME
Eliminate distractions such as television or video games during meals, and establish specific times for the use of electronic devices.
Involves the community
Childhood obesity is not just an individual problem
QuéOnnda.com
The most effective changes occur when the community works together.
Participating in local programs, promoting health education and demanding public policies that facilitate access to fresh food are important steps to combat childhood obesity.
For more information, visit QueOnnda.com.
