News: Could playing sports be making your kid fat?

You enrolled your kids in sports with good intentions to be sure, but the very reason you signed them up may also be why they’re getting fat. One study from the University of Minnesota found that many kids munch on junk food post-game, which cancels out all that exercise.

The research led by Dr. Toben Nelson points to the concession stand menus at games. Some organizers don’t think healthy options will fly with kids (not to mention that revenue from these stands often covers the bill for jerseys). But when you consider the lineups for pizza, nachos and hot dogs during halftime, this stat isn’t that surprising. Even sipping on 375 ml of Gatorade will take a 78 calorie toll.

Here’s a scary breakdown of foods served at sporting events:
‘ 98 percent of tournaments served hot dogs, tacos, pizza, nachos or hamburgers
‘ 92 percent offered pastries, while 81 percent sold chips
‘ How many offered veggies? Just 10 percent

Nelson discovered that half of overweight children also participate in sports. The study doesn’t recommend kids stop playing organized sports. (What’s the alternative? Video games?) But it does give parents something to think about next time they take little Johnny to soccer practice or out to celebrate a win after the game.

Have you noticed unhealthy snacks available at kids’ sporting events?
What do your kids eat after games?

– Marlene Rego, web editor, besthealthmag.ca

Related:
‘ School nutrition: Are we failing Canada’s kids?
‘ 7 healthy after-school snacks
‘ Back-to-school: Help boost your child’s body image