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Madrid programme helps overweight children eat healthier and exercise more
Madrid presented the results of its obesity prevention programme in November, noting that 3,000 children are participating.
The city launched the programme under Mayor of Madrid José Luis Martínez-Almeida earlier this year, with 12 educational institutions from five districts taking part.
As part of the programme aimed at primary school children and their families, approximately 250 activities were organised in the first six months, including workshops, games, sports activities and more.
Interventions for overweight and obese children helped them to improve their eating habits and step up physical activity, with city authorities pointing out that the programme will likely be expanded to other districts and educational institutions.
According to presented results, all participants improved their eating habits in the first six months of the programme, three quarters became more physically active and two thirds have decreased their body mass index. In addition, participants and families rated the activities with 4.85 out of 5.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the critical period for intervention aimed at preventing obesity is from 6 to 12 years of age, when children adopt unhealthy eating habits and lifestyle that increase their chances of staying obese in adulthood.
Madrid authorities stressed the importance of instilling positive habits and outlook from a young age to help children take up physical activity and adopt healthy eating habits.
(Photo credit: Alexandra Tran / Unsplash)
