The obesity rate has more than doubled for adolescents aged 12-19 years over the last two decades.6
Overweight adolescents are 70% more likely of becoming overweight or obese adults. This increases to 80% if one or more parent is overweight or obese.7
Empty calories from added sugars and solid fats account for 40% of children’s and adolescents daily caloric intake. Nearly half of these empty calories come from soda, fruit drinks, dairy and grain desserts, pizza and whole milk.8
Children are more active when schools offer well-designed playgrounds, open spaces, and available facilities and equipment.9,10
Health and fitness are linked to improved academic achievement and grades, and cognitive ability, as well as reduced truancy.11