There are many reasons why people lose weight: for their wedding, to impress that special someone, getting prepared for the beach, and even trying to attempt the impossible: fitting into those 10-year old pants for their high school reunion. Unfortunately for them, potentially the best reason to lose weight is unknown: to help their child’s future. A parent’s weight and lifestyle has a large effect on their child’s activity level, eating habits, and outlook on weight. So when you get to work tomorrow morning take the stairs instead of the elevator, have popcorn with no butter at the movie theatre, and go play catch with your child so both of you can fit a little exercise into your lives.

It might not be fair, after all most moms and dads around the country already live their lives around their children. Asking you to watch your weight is just one more responsibility that you think you do not have time for. However, the statistics are frightening:

According to The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, a child with one obese parent is 50% likely to become obese. A child with two obese parents is 80% likely to be become obese. These numbers are scary, but sadly, they are true. The sad part is that obesity (being approximately 30 pounds overweight) increases a person’s chances of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and some cancers.

There are many positive qualities that you work hard to pass on to your children: treating people correctly, a strong work ethic, studying, doing the right thing, etc., but sadly and unfortunately, most Americans pass on their health and weight problems as well. I am not trying to add more stress into your life, being a parent comes with major responsibility as it is, but making a positive decision about your health will significantly benefit your children.

If the idea of being a grand or GREAT grand parent isn’t enough, then get healthy so that your children have a chance to someday tell stories to their grandchildren. So the next time you think about driving to the store down the block, or eating that extra piece of pie, keep your children in mind. Remember, it is okay to get healthy for others as well as yourself: do it for you, do it for your parents, do it for your spouse, and do it for your children. Their health and the role model you are for them should keep you motivated to adapt a healthy lifestyle. It is one of the best things you can do for your family.

Good luck and have fun!