DALLAS — The childhood obesity rate in the United States has tripled in the past 30 years. In this morning's "After The Bell" report, a group of Dallas students learns how healthy eating habits at a young age can have benefits that last a lifetime.
"Some foods I didn't know we really could even make out of healthy foods," said 12-year-old Jeremy Broadneax. "I remember one time we put peanut butter and cinnamon and M&Ms in it, and it tasted so good!"
The "Kids In The Kitchen" program started last year at a Dallas YMCA. It was designed by the Junior League.
The program runs for 12 weeks and addresses issues surrounding childhood obesity and poor nutrition. The goal? To help the children adopt healthy habits.
"It gets the kids eating and choosing different foods they might not otherwise have tried and they realize they like it," said Meredith Camp, Junior League president.
The children cook twice a week; on other days, they learn about the food pyramid and how to make simple, affordable snacks.
The hope is for these kids to bring their healthy habits home.
"I cook for my momma all the time," Jeremy said. "I always cook fruits and vegetables for her. Whenever she's sick, I cook for her so she can feel better."
E-mail cflanagan@wfaa.com
