Tricare officials encourage military kids to "move" on childhood obesity Published Sept. 8, 2010 FALLS CHURCH, Va. (AFNS) -- During the month of September, Tricare officials continue their strong commitment to the battle against childhood obesity. By observing Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, Tricare representatives are active participants in the Let's Move! program for military kids. The national Let's Move! program works to combat the epidemic of childhood obesity through engaging every sector impacting a child's health. It provides schools, families and communities simple tools to help kids be more active, eat better and get healthy. Tricare's web page at www.tricare.mil/getfit serves as the 'headquarters' for beneficiaries looking for resources on childhood obesity. The page highlights ongoing efforts to raise awareness of childhood obesity and encourages children to eat right and exercise. It has links to informational websites and games emphasizing good nutrition and fitness for kids. Officials with the Let's Move! campaign report that over the past three decades, childhood obesity rates in America have tripled, and today, nearly one in three children in America is overweight or obese. What is more shocking, one third of all children born in 2000 or later, will suffer from diabetes at some point in their lives. Many others will face chronic obesity-related health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer and asthma. Tricare health specialists know it is not easy battling obesity. Weight loss occurs when calories consumed are less than calories burned. If children -- or adults -- consume more calories than they are burning, there is a good chance they will gain weight. Decreasing calorie consumption and increasing physical activity to burn more calories than consumed is the simple "recipe" for weight loss. For someone obese, staying committed to changing his or her diet may not be simple. Physicians and experts are in agreement that battling obesity involves a commitment to healthy eating habits and regular exercise. Having a support system is also very important. Early and appropriate intervention is valuable. Teaching children ways to make healthy eating choices at a young age can bring benefits for a lifetime. Military personnel, retirees and their families can utilize the support from the Defense Commissary Agency. The DeCA website at www.commisaries.com provides dietary advice columns, recipes and information on making healthy food choices. The "MyPyramid" tool at www.mypyramind.gov from the Agriculture Department assists by creating a personalized eating schedule and physical activity plan. For exercise and activities, check with schools for a list of programs. Also, military Morale, Welfare and Recreation centers offer activities from team sports like basketball and baseball, to music, dance, martial arts, gymnastics, swimming, ice skating and more. MWR youth services has something for everyone. Beneficiaries should check with the nearest installation for more information. Learn more about Let's Move! at www.letsmove.gov and Childhood Obesity Awareness Month at www.healthierkidsbrighterfutures.org.