Tag Archives: Obesity

OBESITY: THE NATION?S NUMBER ONE KILLER The Most Common Genetic Cause of Morbid Obesity Unfamiliar to Too Many: Prader-Willi Syndrome. Prader-Willi California Foundation (PWCF) Raises Public Awareness

July 21, 2012     No comments

TORRANCE, CA (PRWEB) April 17, 2004

It is estimated that 18,000 to 23,000 people in the United States have Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS), a non-inherited genetic disorder that causes people to become extraordinarily obese and die of obesity-related disorders if their entire environment is not managed twenty-four hours a day, every day, for the remainder of their lives.

Never heard of Prader-Willi Syndrome? Unfortunately, that?s not surprising, according to Prader-Willi California Foundation (PWCF), the non-profit organization based in Torrance that provides support and services to individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome and their families throughout the state of California. PWCF?s Executive Director Lisa Graziano says the syndrome is still unfamiliar to most health care professionals, including pediatricians, pediatric nurses, neurologists, and endocrinologists, even though it is the most common cause of genetic obesity and has been identified since 1956. Says Graziano, ?Unfortunately, we talk to families all too often who for years have watched helplessly while their child gains massive amounts of weight, who have gone to doctor after doctor looking for answers and help, and who only recently have been properly diagnosed. The guilt, stress, and misery these individuals and their families have endured is absolutely heartbreaking.? It is estimated that in the state of California somewhere between 2,200 to 2,800 people have Prder-Willi syndrome, but less than 500 have been identified. Graziano continues, ?We must increase awareness of this genetic disorder. Awareness saves lives.?

More Than Just Obesity

Because individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome always feel hungry, they cannot live independently because if allowed, they would literally eat themselves into premature death. But Prader-Willi Syndrome is more than just morbid obesity. Its symptoms are myriad and seemingly endless. A failure of the hypothalamus appears to be at least partially responsible for creating weak muscle tone; cognitive impairment; slow metabolic rate; insatiable appetite (hyperphagia); high pain threshold; respiratory concerns; short stature; incomplete sexual development; body temperature abnormalities; diabetes; scoliosis; dental problems; problems with motor skills; speech problems; characteristic behavior problems such as temper tantrums, violent outbursts, obsessive-compulsive behavior, tendency to be argumentative, oppositional, rigid, stubborn, and perseverating; and the list goes on and on.

There is No Cure. But There Is Hope.

There is no cure for Prader-Willi Syndrome. No known medications can control the hyperphagia, and no medication can totally manage the characteristic mood swings and behavioral symptoms. But there have been some advances, such as growth hormone therapy which is helpful to improve muscle tone and short stature. Despite the fact that obesity and obesity-related illnesses, such as diabetes, have been identified as a national epidemic, very little research is under way on PWS, the number one cause of genetic obesity. More research dollars are needed to continue to develop the medications that will control the symptoms of hyperphagia and behavior problems so that individuals with PWS can live independent, productive lives.

Early identification and intervention can eliminate obesity and obesity-related illnesses. Early intervention helps families manage some of the behavioral and psychiatric symptoms. Awareness not only saves lives, it improves the quality of life of individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome.

Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Week Events

Prader-Willi California Foundation will commemorate national Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Week by hosting two awareness and fundraising events, Walking for Prader-Willi Syndrome, on Sunday,

April 25 in Encino and on Saturday, May 1 in Berkeley. Funds raised at the events will benefit individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome and their families by providing educational, support, and advocacy services, including supportive living and group home assistance.

About Prader-Wili California Foundation

Prader-Willi California Foundation (PWCF) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1979 by families of children and adult children with Prader-Willi Syndrome. PWCF is the only state-wide advocacy organization dedicated to serving the needs of individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome and their families. PWCF is an affiliate of Prader-Willi Syndrome Association, the national organization serving the needs of individuals with PWS and their families. PWCF?s members are volunteer family members, caregivers, and a handful of professionals who believe that through perseverance, hard work, and faith we can create miracles for our children. For more information about Prader-Willi Syndrome, the Walking for Prader-Willi Syndrome awareness events, and Prader-Willi California Foundation, visit http://www.pwcf.org or contact Lisa Graziano, Executive Director of Prader-Willi California Foundation at (800) 400-9994 (within California), (310) 316-3339, or email pwcf@msn.com.

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Prader-Willi California Foundation

3655 Torrance Boulevard, Suite 360

Torrance, CA 90503

(800) 400-9994 (Within California)

(310) 316-3339 ? Fax: (310) 316-3730

http://www. pwcf.org ? pwcf@msn.com

Lisa Graziano, Executive Director







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Obesity Poses Risk to your Vision

July 19, 2012     No comments


San Diego, CA (PRWEB) August 17, 2011

Obesity Poses Risk to your Vision

Serious eye diseases can occur with being overweight

A staggering number of people in the United States are struggling with their weight. In fact, 64% of the population is overweight or obese, and obesity is increasing at an alarming rate- about one third of adults and 17% of children. It is well known that serious diseases such as hypertension, heart disease and diabetes are associated with obesity. However, Dr. Sandy T. Feldman of ClearView Eye & Laser Medical Center, thinks San Diegans need to be also aware of the possibility of vision loss associated with this growing epidemic of obesity.

?Of all the senses, eyesight is valued above all others, so people need to be aware of the important link between one?s weight and vision loss? says Dr. Feldman. Diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, age related macular degeneration and glaucoma are associated with obesity. These are serious diseases which can lead to severe vision loss.

We define obesity by body mass index greater than or equal to 30 see BMI calculator as well as abdominal waist hip circumference ratio. These factors along certain conditions such as increased cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and others increase the risk of serious disease in the obese.

A number of large studies in the U.S. and abroad, have shown that obesity is associated with common eye diseases including:

????1. Increased cataracts in both men and women. A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye.

????2. Age related macular degeneration [ARMD], a devastating disease which causes a loss in one?s central vision, has also been associated with obesity. ?In the Physician?s Health Study, ARMD was associated with high BMI? says Dr. Feldman while a recent Australian study found that for each 0.1 increase in the waist/hip ratio, there was a 75% increased chance of developing late stage ARMD.

????3. Other studies have clearly shown intraocular pressure, a risk factor for glaucoma to be increased in obese.

????4. Diabetes is also a condition commonly observed in the obese and individuals and individuals with high BMI develop diabetic retinopathy earlier. This occurs as a result of damage to the small blood vessels inside the retina.

Dr. Sandy Feldman wants individuals to be aware of the link between weight and serious vision loss.

?This is just one more reason to visit the eye doctor yearly, and maybe, eye doctors along with medical doctors can help people to start to take their own health into their hands!? said Feldman.

?These serious health diseases are just one more reason to visit the eye doctor yearly along with all of the other reasons to have annual eye examinations. I?m a big fan of Michelle Obama?s Let?s Move Campaign and I feel strongly that as a doctor it?s my obligation to encourage and inform the public about the overall healthy way to live. That means, eating right, exercise, keeping your brain challenged and to be good to your eyes,? Dr. Feldman stated.

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Health Action Partnership, Birmingham Botanical Gardens Partner to Shine a Light on Alabama?s Obesity Problem, Solutions

July 10, 2012     No comments


Jefferson County, AL (PRWEB) June 07, 2012

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Seventy, 70 percent of Alabamians are overweight or obese. Obesity contributes to five of the 10 leading causes of death in America, including heart disease, type-2 diabetes, many cancers and stroke. Members of many Central Alabama communities are fighting back and hoping more public engagement will accelerate progress.

As part of the its ongoing effort to curb the obesity epidemic in Jefferson County, the Health Action Partnership will co-host a free viewing of the groundbreaking HBO documentary, ?The Weight of the Nation.? The event, which kicks off Birmingham Botanical Gardens? documentary film series celebrating Alabama Department of Tourism?s ?Year of Alabama Food,? will be held in the Linn-Henley Auditorium at The Gardens on Sunday, June 24 at 2 p.m.

Three years in the making, ?The Weight of the Nation? examines the facts and myths of this urgent public health issue, showing how obesity affects the health of the nation and the health care system. The four-part film features case studies and interviews with leading experts, individuals and families struggling with obesity. The series also highlights how individuals, work sites, and communities are making positive changes.

The documentary?s fourth part, ?Challenges? ? the portion that will be shown June 24 ? looks at the severity and origins of obesity?s rise and considers the challenges for those struggling with overweight and obesity. It also presents opportunities and solutions for communities to fight the epidemic.

A comprehensive panel discussion and Q&A session will follow the screening, and attendees will be given tips and materials for managing a healthy lifestyle and for making positive changes in their community. The panel will be moderated by Ashley Obiaka, obesity prevention program manager at United Way of Central Alabama, and will include Dr. Jose Fernandez, from the UAB Department of Nutrition Sciences; Sandra Koulourides, founder of Fuel + Fitness; and fitness and nutrition expert Jerri Haslem.

?Obesity is a serious threat to the well-being of our nation,? Obiaka said. ?We need to intensify the conversation and facilitate community action to help bring down obesity rates and improve the quality of life for those who live and work in Jefferson County.?

Champions for Health is an initiative of the Jefferson County Health Action Partnership ? a coalition of more than 100 nonprofit organizations working alongside the Jefferson County Department of Health ? to advance smoke-free policies, reduce tobacco use, encourage physical activity, reduce obesity, expand food access, and improve the overall health of Jefferson County residents. Champions for Health is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. http://www.championsforhealth.org

?The Weight of the Nation? is a presentation of HBO and the Institute of Medicine, in association with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health, and in partnership with the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation and Kaiser Permanente. http://www.hbo.com/theweightofthenation

Birmingham Botanical Gardens is Alabama’s largest living museum with more than 12,000 different plants in its living collections. The Gardens’ 67.5 acres contains more than 25 unique gardens, 30+ works of original outdoor sculpture and miles of serene paths. The Gardens features the largest public horticulture library in the U.S., conservatories, a wildflower garden, two rose gardens, the Southern Living garden, and Japanese Gardens with a traditionally crafted tea house. Education programs run year round and more than 10,000 school children enjoy free science-curriculum based field trips annually. The Gardens is open daily, offering free admission to more than 350,000 yearly visitors. http://www.bbgardens.org







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Conquering Childhood Obesity

June 29, 2012     No comments

(PRWEB) January 14, 2005

Preparing a child for school is more demanding than it has ever been. School supplies have taken a backseat to something more important and life threatening – childhood obesity. During the past three decades, the number of overweight children in the United States has more than doubled (New England Journal of Medicine. Mar 2002).????

Hyperactivity, listlessness and an inability to pay attention are small side effects compared to the health dangers of obesity in young children. Parents do not need a medical doctor to tell them that a daily diet of sugar found in their child’s favorite cereals, chips and cookies is detrimental. Sugary cake substances in snacks, high preservatives, fats and salts found in lunch boxes are all a dangerous road leading to overweight children and in many cases deadly diseases. Excess weight is associated with increased risk for heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and other chronic conditions. (U.S. News & World Report, Dec 2004). In light of these circumstances breakfast and lunch can be a parent’s worst enemy. The full course nutritious breakfast, a tradition once enjoyed by many parents’ generations, is now sacrificed to accommodate the demands of today’s “on-the-go” lifestyle.????School lunches are a convenient choice over brown bag lunches and can also be a demon to reckon with. School lunches contain mainly high-fat canned and packaged foods. (The New York Times, Oct. 24, 2004 ) What is a parent to do? How do you combat the threat of childhood obesity in your child? How do you experience victory over the boring brown bag lunch and also provide nutritional meals for your children? Statistics prove that unhealthy eating habits have led to the growing obesity epidemic and contributes to 4 out of 10 kids developing adult onset diabetes, a disease that can alter one’s life and lead to blindness and heart disease. To ward off diabetes, make healthy eating and physical activity a daily routine. (Review and Herald Publishing Assn. Nov 2004)

Clearly, meal planning is the first hurdle towards success in beating the obesity problem in children. Just some of the excellent snacks that can replace a full breakfast at home include fruit, oatmeal or homemade french toast. Diets rich in fruit and vegetables have been recommended for preventing cancer. (The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Sep. 2003). For a nutritious lunch it seems best to err on the side of caution, cook meals yourself and know exactly what your child is eating. For instance, lunch can include your child?s favorite home cooked meal left over from dinner. Freeze it store it and pack it for lunch.

This all sounds wonderful but how does a parent accomplish this? A Bensalem, PA company called Warm & Tote.com has come up with a remedy that is catching on. They have invented a thermal lunch box system that dramatically improves on the age old lunch box that merely transports meals from one place to the next. Their product called the Lunch & Go? Lunch Tote that founders, Glenn and Lynn Page, say does much more. Lunch & Go? provides portable on-board, on demand heat or cold lasting 4+ hours. Lunch & Go? boasts about its ability to give parents freedom in sending nutritious hot or cold meals to school with children for snack and/or lunch. You can see it for yourself and view the vast menu possibilities suggested with the Lunch & Go? lunch tote on their website, http://www.warmandtote.com. Apparently one of the most effective weapons against childhood obesity is to provide a healthy diet for your children. According to Dr. Ravi Shankar, pediatric doctor and diabetes specialist, “a decade ago, we rarely diagnosed type 2 diabetes in children and teens. Now, we are seeing an epidemic increase in the incidence of type 2 diabetes in youth. The jump is phenominal.” The Saturday Evening Post. Nov/Dec 2004

According to Lunch & Go? a healthy meal can be taken anywhere, school lunch, soccer and all sports games, car trips, its portability is endless. Parents, diabetics and vegetarians show signs of early and wide adoption of the new product. Lunch & Go Lunch Tote website – http://www.warmandtote.com.

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Obesity, A Contributing Cause Of Arthritis Of The Knee, Is Now Being Treated With Regenerative Medicine At The Center For Regenerative Medicine

June 29, 2012     No comments


Miami, FL (PRWEB) June 20, 2012

“Obesity a contributing cause of arthritis of the knee is now being treated with regenerative medicine at the Center for Regenerative Medicine.” according to A.J. Farshchian MD an orthopedic regenerative practitioner at the center for regenerative medicine.

The prevalence of both obesity and knee arthritis continue to increase globally more so in the developed countries. In the United States alone almost 33% of the adult population are considered as obese, while knee pain is the number one reason for visits to the center.

Weight loss can decrease knee pain if patient is greatly overweight. However weight loss alone is unlikely to completely relieve the pain. Obesity also makes other complications such as Diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

Studies have shown that obese persons, especially obese older women, are at higher risk for knee osteoarthritis (OA). We have learned from The Framingham Study (The largest study done up to this point which is a landmark study, it began in 1948 in which some 12,000 residents of the town of Framingham, Massachusetts were enrolled) that a drop in weight as little as 11 lbs can decrease the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis. On the basis of epidemiologic findings such as these, the center likes to start a weight loss program as early as possible on the patients who suffer from osteoarthritis of knee, hip or ankle (the weight bearing joints).

The Center for Regenerative Medicine in Miami, Florida concentrates on helping arthritic and injured people to get back to a functional level of life and their activities using non-surgical techniques and Orthopedic medicine. The center’s expertise is in treatment of conditions of spine, knees, shoulders, and other cartilage damages. They have developed non-surgical and rehabilitation techniques focused on treatment and management of joint pain. Their team includes health professionals organized around a central theme.







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New Fat Burning Book Helps Users Conquer Obesity!

June 27, 2012     No comments


Chicago, IL (PRWEB) June 07, 2012

“Pure Fat Burning Fuel: For Total Fat Loss” tells the story of how De Los Rios improved her own life and how others fighting obesity can learn from her struggle.

The Center for Disease Control estimates that 33.9% of Americans over the age of 20 are obese, and that 34.4% are overweight, and De Los Rios used to be no different. The overweight daughter and granddaughter of Type 2 Diabetes sufferers, De Los Rios shares how she reached and maintained her ideal weight and became healthy and vibrant without suffering or even dieting, and how others in the same boat can do the same. The book is not about fat burning diets but instead it includes principles for heart healthy eating habits, guidelines for meal servings and how to shape your lifestyle into a process that is healthy, economical and easy. In her own words, she has stated:

?Why do I care so much? Because I?ve been there! I know what it feels like to look in the mirror and be completely unhappy with what is staring right back at you. I know what it feels like to want to wear certain clothes and look from afar as other girls enjoy those cool clothes.?

Mixing heartfelt narrative with clear, straightforward instructions, Pure Fat Burning Fuel educates and inspires. The book also includes sample easy-to-follow meal plans to enhance and simplify its nutritional information. Pure Fat Burning Fuel is available as an e-book through Amazon.







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New Program Fosters Healthy Eating Habits and Combats Childhood Obesity

June 23, 2012     No comments

(PRWEB) January 5, 2006

With the rise in childhood obesity and the increased risk of many obesity-related health problems, The Lifestyle Journey Program promotes healthy eating and lifestyle habits. This program empowers kids and families to create long-term healthy habits; it is not simply another weight loss program geared towards individuals who are overweight. All families can benefit from The Lifestyle Journey Program.

The recent release of the report ?What We Eat in America,? (an integrated report combining surveys conducted by both the USDA and the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services) shows that almost a third of Americans get too little Vitamin C, almost half get too little Vitamin A, more than half get too little magnesium and 92-97 percent get too little fiber and potassium. These particular nutrients are important because they help lower the risk of major health diseases such as cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes, which are also related to obesity. Studies also reveal that the average 13- to 18-year-old male drinks two cans of soda a day (the equivalent of 70 pounds of sugar a year) and that on average, teens and children consume fast food three to four times a week, which could lead to childhood obesity and a weight gain of as much as 12 pounds per year. It is possible that today?s generation of young people may not out-live their parents, as a result of obesity and the early onset of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes.

?Based on reports such as What We Eat in America and with statistics showing how many people are overweight or obese, we felt there was a need to reach out to families within their own homes to help them foster healthy eating habits and positive long-term lifestyle choices,? states Steve Coons, one of the co-Creators of The Lifestyle Journey Program.?

The Lifestyle Journey Program has been used in both U.S. and Canadian schools, with over 15,000 students using the program this year. The program is dietitian-reviewed and physician-endorsed.

Kevin Murdoch, the program?s other co-Creator states, ?In schools that have used the program, there has been such great feedback; however, by creating this home-based version of the program, we can support even more families to lead a healthy lifestyle and all the benefits it has to offer.?

Students that have used the program have reported higher intakes of calcium-rich foods, fruits and vegetables, whole grain foods, healthier snacks as well as increased levels of physical activity. Parents also report noticeable changes in their son or daughter?s daily food choices.

About The Lifestyle Journey Program:

Building on the widespread use of the program in schools throughout the U.S. and Canada, young people are empowered to develop their own Healthy Living Plan. Participants track their daily food and activity choices and use hands-on tools to develop healthy eating habits. Participants also have opportunities to participate in coaching sessions and receive ongoing support as they work through the 5 phases of the program. The Lifestyle Journey Program helps discourage childhood obesity through activities that encourage healthy eating and positive lifestyle choices.

Contact:

Steve Coons or Kevin Murdoch

Ideas for People ? Creators of The Lifestyle Journey Program

PH (Toll-Free): 1-866-660-6659

http://www.lifestylejourney.com

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Study Predicts 42% of the U.S. Population will be Obese by 2030: Education to Combat Obesity

June 22, 2012     No comments


Mount Laurel, New Jersey (PRWEB) June 05, 2012

The 4th Annual Continuing Education (CME/CEU) Conference, “The Science and Business of Weight Management for the New or Experienced Practitioner,” beginning on July 19, 2012, in Philadelphia, will focus on the operational and treatment skills, techniques, and strategies healthcare professionals need to successfully open a new weight loss facility or enhance a current weight management program.

According to a May 2012 report in the “American Journal of Preventive Medicine,” about 42% of the U.S. population will be obese by 2030. Eric Finkelstein, lead author of the report, and co-authors estimate that 11% of the population will be severely obese by 2030.

Healthcare professionals are in the optimal position to improve the quality of life for individuals who are obese and overweight by reducing their weight and co-morbid conditions. As the obesity epidemic progresses, healthcare professionals should look toward educational forums to learn about the latest research advances, operational and treatment skills, techniques and strategies needed to successfully open a new weight management facility or enhance an existing program. To that end, the Annual Continuing Education Conference is pushing for education and providing an opportunity for networking and the exchange of essential knowledge.

Featured speakers at this year?s conference include: Dr. Robert F. Kushner; Judith S. Beck, PhD and Deborah Beck Busis, LSW; Thomas Wadden, PhD; John Baker, MD; John Hernried, MD; Susan Baker, MHA; and John Foreyt, MD, among others.

For more information about the 4th Annual Continuing Education (CME/CEU) Conference, “The Science and Business of Weight Management for the New or Experienced Practitioner,” visit http://www.WeightConference.com, or call Jennifer Eisenhofer at 888.519.1192, ext. 3012.

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Family History May Play a Role in Risk for Obesity

June 20, 2012     No comments

San Diego, CA (PRWEB) July 19, 2006 ?-

A sedentary lifestyle and an unhealthy diet are largely cited as culprits in the ever-increasing numbers of overweight and obese Americans. However, scientists are getting closer to identifying a gene variant that may leave some people more susceptible to obesity. Identification of this gene early in life may help to prevent the onset of significant weight gain and clinical obesity through preventive measures.

In obese or severely overweight individuals, doctors have long suspected that genetics, in addition to inactivity and poor nutrition, are to blame. To what degree, however, heredity plays a part in weight gain is still unknown. Recognition of an obesity-causing gene, once medically identified, is by no means a quick fix or a way to completely prevent obesity.

?As a physician, I have long-known that a family history of obesity is a definite indicator that a person may become severely overweight or clinically obese,? said Eugene Rumsey, M.D., F.A.C.S., surgeon at Pacific Bariatric Surgical Medical Group, Inc. (http://www.pbsmg.com) and Scripps Mercy Hospital in San Diego. ?This is true for many other dangerous diseases, such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes, and we must approach the treatment of obesity with the same tenacity.?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 64 percent of all U.S. adults are overweight or obese. Morbid obesity is closely correlated with a number of serious conditions that severely undermines the health of overweight patients, including heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. Divided gastric bypass surgery is widely accepted as the most effective surgical weight-loss treatment available and is considered the gold standard to alleviate severe obesity.

Surgeons at Pacific Bariatric Surgical Medical Group, Inc. have performed over 9,000 procedures on adult and adolescent patients at Scripps Mercy Hospital. As a result of outstanding aftercare programs and support groups, patients at Pacific Bariatric and Scripps Mercy Hospital see a slightly higher success rate than the national average.

Pacific Bariatric Surgical Medical Group, Inc. and Scripps Mercy Hospital are nationally designated by the American Society for Bariatric Surgery as a Center of Excellence for bariatric surgery. Pacific Bariatric Surgical Medical Group, also known as Hillcrest Surgical Medical Group, Inc., has an 80-year tradition of surgical excellence and leadership in San Diego County. Scripps Mercy Hospital has been a health care leader in San Diego County for more than 115 years, offering patients an unparalleled continuum of care. For more information, visit http://www.pbsmg.com.

Established in 1890 by the Sisters of Mercy, Scripps Mercy Hospital serves the San Diego and Chula Vista communities. With 700 licensed beds, more than 3,000 employees and 1,300 physicians, Scripps Mercy Hospital is San Diego?s longest established and only Catholic medical center. With two campuses, Scripps Mercy Hospital is the largest hospital in San Diego County and one of the 10 largest in California. For more information, visit http://www.scripps.org.

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Obesity, Kids and Beverages: Top Five Tips for Replacing Sugary Beverages Can Help Kids Develop Healthy New Back-to-School Habit

June 20, 2012     No comments

SOUTHPORT, CT (PRWEB) September 13, 2006

For parents of school-age children, the fall season can feel like a second ?New Year.? The structure of back to school and other routines often provides an opportunity to establish new habits, or reinstate old ones, that are difficult to implement during the more freewheeling days of summer. This year, in light of current data that shows a rocketing increase in the number of American kids who are either overweight or obese, one key ?resolution? many parents are making is to help their children develop healthy habits.

?Research shows that one of the best, and easiest, ways parents and their children can avoid the serious health consequences of overweight and obesity is by drinking at least 6-8 servings of water each day,? notes Nina Riley, founder and CEO of Water Sensations, Inc. ?Yet, children often balk at drinking water, because there?s a bevy of alternatives aimed at kids that promise more exciting taste. Instead, they deliver too much sugar and too many calories, making them a major contributing factor to the rise in childhood obesity rates,? Riley explains. Drinking one 12 oz can of any sugary drink every day delivers 10 tsp of sugar and potentially 15 lbs of weight gain per year.

Indeed, in a review study published in the August issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health pored over the results of 30 of the best studies published since 1966 on the subject of beverages and childhood obesity, and the link is clear. ?The weight of [the]?evidence indicates that a greater consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages is associated with weight gain and obesity,? the authors cautioned, adding that ?sufficient evidence exists for public health strategies to discourage consumption of sugary drinks as part of a healthy lifestyle.?

Unfortunately, heeding the advice is proving more difficult than it might seem. According to this year?s annual government report ?America?s Children in Brief: Key National Indicators of Well-Being,? the rate of childhood overweight and obesity continues its upward spiral. Today, 18% of U.S. children over the age of 5 are overweight or obese, a tripling of the 1980 overweight/obesity rate of just 6%. ?This startling number represents more than ten million American children who are at risk not only for the discomforts of being overweight ? taunting or teasing by classmates, or an inability to join in fun sports or school activities ? but also for the real health dangers of obesity, such as early onset of Type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease and stroke,? warns Judy Hochstadt, MD, a Connecticut-based pediatric endocrinologist and specialist in childhood diabetes and obesity.

The good news, Dr. Hochstadt continues, is that drinking water can actually promote weight loss, while providing an alternative to the sugary beverages that are contributing to what most experts are now terming the ?childhood obesity epidemic.? The trick, of course, is to make water as flavorful and interesting to children as sugar- and calorie-laden sodas and juice drinks are.

Water Sensations? Riley, along with business partner Carolyn Frzop, think they have the answer. The two actually launched Water Sensations ? a company that makes sugar-free, calorie-free, carb-free liquid flavor enhancers for water ? in response to their own challenge as mothers to get their children to drink more water in lieu of soda and other sugary beverages. ?We realized the mission we were undertaking for our own families was so important ? and the solution we found was so terrific ? that we could share it with people across the country and around the world who wanted to take the ?boring? out of drinking more water,? Riley explains. The company now offers six flavors of its convenient, colorless liquid packets (no mess, no stains), each of which flavors a standard single-serve bottle or large glass of water.????

Riley and Frzop also offer their ?Top 5 Tips? for parents who want to encourage their children to drink more water, and develop a habit that can lead to a lifetime of better health:

1. Flavor it up! Children are interested in taste, and plain water offers little. Adding sugar-free, calorie-free flavor to their water ? whether from a packet of Water Sensations or a slice of citrus fruit ? can get kids more excited about forgoing the soda or juice drinks.

2. Put water front and center! Serve a glass of water with every meal, keep a pitcher of pre-flavored water in the refrigerator, toss a bottle and a Water Sensations packet in kids? backpacks, sports bags and lunchboxes. They?re more likely to drink it if it?s conveniently available to them.

3. Stock alternative energy boosters! For teenagers especially, drinking sugary sodas, teas, coffees and energy drinks are as much about the caffeine boost as they are about the thirst quench. Replace these drinks with flavored waters, and let them get a healthier ?jolt? from complex carbohydrate/protein snacks like whole grain crackers and cheese, granola with yogurt, a fruit smoothie, etc. Bonus! Increased water intake can help keep skin clear, a major esteem booster for teenagers.

4. Be a good role model! Children of all ages look to their parents and other adults in authority to model positive habits and behaviors. Make sure your kids ?catch? you drinking plenty of water, and you?ll be on your way to leaving them a legacy of good health for generations to come.

5. Stick to the 6-8 a day rule! With these tips, you?ll find it easier to establish drinking enough water every day as a non-negotiable health rule. Children ? and adults ? often find that they are less hungry and more energized when they?re well-hydrated; this can lead to more appropriate food choices and portion sizes, and more physical activity, which are the other two links to controlling childhood obesity.

About Water Sensations, Inc.

Water Sensations, Inc. markets the industry?s newest water enhancer, Water Sensations?, as the first clear liquid flavor enhancer for water. All natural and sweetened with sucralose, Water Sensations? is sugar free, calorie free and carbohydrate free. Water Sensations? is available in more than 3,500 stores in the U.S., including Target, Shop & Stop, The Food Emporium, IGA, Big Y, Kroger and more. Water Sensations, Inc. was founded in 2005 by Nina Riley, a marketing executive with more than 20 years of experience in classic marketing and brand management for companies including Philips Electronics, Unilever, Lipton, General Foods and General Mills. Ms. Riley has developed brand strategy, retail strategic alliances, advertising campaigns and joint ventures for high profile brands including Norelco Razors, Lipton Soups and Side Dishes, Wishbone Salad Dressings, Lawry?s Seasoning, Ragu Chicken Tonight Simmer Sauces, Post Cereal and more. She holds an MBA from Penn State and a BS from Ithaca College. More information on Ms. Riley and her company, Water Sensations, can be found online at http://www.WaterSensations.com.

Bio: Judith Hochstadt, MD

Judith Hochstadt, M.D. is a leading pediatrician and endocrinologist with extensive practice in the epidemic problems of childhood obesity and diabetes. Dr. Hochstadt is a Diplomate, American Board of Pediatrics, a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, member of the AACE, (American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists), Endocrine Society, ADA, and NAASO (North American Association for the Study of Obesity). A graduate of Downstate Medical Center, in Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Hochstadt did her internship, residency and fellowship in Pediatric Enocrinology & Diabetes at Yale New Haven Medical Center. Her research at Yale Involved working with children and adolescents on the prototype insulin pump. She ran a Yale satellite diabetes and endocrinology clinci for 18 years at Bridgeport Hospital in Bridgeport, CT. There, she witnessed firsthand the emergence of the obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus epidenic. She is the past vice president of the Fairfield County Chapter of the American Diabetes Association. Dr. Hochstadt is a Senior Attending in Pediatrics/Pediatric Endocrinology at Bridgeport Hospital, Bridgeport, CT and has offices in CT in Commerce Park, Fairfield, Huntington, Southport, Trumbull and Stratford.



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