The State of Iowa has launched a new initiative to combat childhood obesity. The childhood health campaign called “5210 – Healthy Choices Count” is a public-private partnership with the Healthiest State Initiative and the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH). 5210 is a nationally recognized childhood obesity prevention program that focuses on the importance of four simple daily health habits:

5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables;
2 hours or less of screen time (television, computer, video games, phones, etc.);
1 hour or more of physical activity; and
0 (or reduced) sugar-sweetened beverages.
“Research has shown that children who have healthy eating habits, are physically active and spend less time in front of a screen do better in school,” Gov. Reynolds said. Local obesity rates are a concern to the Healthy Cass County group. Looking at Iowa teen data, nearly 30 percent are overweight or obese, according to IDPH.

The childhood obesity prevention program was developed in the state of Maine. The goal is to increase physical activity and healthy eating for children from birth to 18 years through three core principles: healthy places support healthy choices, consistent messaging across sectors is essential, and strategies are based on science and recommended by the medical community. Watch for future articles promoting health and well-being from Healthy Cass County.