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 Childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control. And this alarming epidemic is posing significant public health problems, as obesity leads to increased risk in adulthood for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and several types of cancer.
The experts at Provena Mercy Medical Center take this problem seriously and created a unique program to address the issue.
“IROC: I’m Reducing Obesity in Children,” is the first nutrition program in the area to include parents and children in an effort to reduce and prevent childhood obesity. Created by the Center for Diabetic Wellness of Provena Mercy Medical Center, the program’s mission is to promote the health and well-being of children and adolescents so they become healthy adults.
Studies show that nearly 1 in 3 children in America are overweight or obese, and 1 in 6 children in Kane County are obese.
 The free, 8-week nutrition education program is designed to promote lifelong healthy eating habits.
Children ages 5-10 attend cooking classes that introduce them to easy recipes, simple measurements and kitchen safety. Meanwhile, parents take part in education workshops that emphasize proper nutrition for children.
The program also includes health assessments, goal-setting and evaluations, all led by qualified health care professionals, including certified diabetes educators and registered dieticians from the Center for Diabetic Wellness of Provena Mercy Medical Center.
Provena Mercy is partnering with the Making Kane County Fit for Kids Campaign and is working in collaboration with the American Cancer Society and Fox Valley Park District to bring this unique program to Kane County.
For session dates, location and registration, call 630-859-8606.
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