Abstract
Obesity rates among children have increased significantly in the past 3 decades. Childhood obesity is an early risk factor for adult morbidity and mortality, contributing to long-term health problems such as type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, and osteoporosis. Diet and lifestyle strategies taught at an early age may impact future obesity rates in children. This column reviews childhood nutrition issues that relate to overweight and obesity and provides ways in which the family and the school can work toward healthier eating and lifestyle habits in children. Recommendations for optimal bone health during childhood will also be discussed.