Disney characters helping government urge kids to eat healthier, exercise

By: NBC Medical Wire | WSLS
Published: February 25, 2009

The federal government has come up with a new way to get kids to eat right and exercise more.

The Agriculture Department started rolling out new public service announcements Wednesday. They feature Disney characters.

They're called "bright future," aimed at getting kids and parents to recognize the importance of good nutrition and physical activity.

More than a third of the nation's children are at risk, or are currently overweight or obese. Agriculture officials say they're attacking the problem by urging families to take small steps toward health.

A 15-minute family walk, a few minutes on the treadmill, encouraging kids to fill their dinner plates with colorful fruits and vegetables.

There's also concern about teenagers. Fewer than one in four are eating the five servings of fruits and vegetables they should be eating every day.

But officials hope these PSAs will first encourage little kids to develop healthy habits.

"They begin to ask their moms and dads about, about healthy eating, about activity, about what Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket are suggesting. These are characters that mom and dad can relate to, as well from their own childhood, and so that can stimulate conversation," said Tom Vilsack, Secretary of Agriculture.

You can get more information about eating healthy and exercise at the government's web site: http://www.mypyramid.gov

Disney characters helping government urge kids to eat healthier, exercise

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