Nutrition in Schools Advisory Service

Overweight and Obese Children in Australia

Results from the National Nutrition Survey 1995 found that 23% of 9 - 18 year olds were overweight or at risk of being overweight. This figure has increased 8% since the last survey was done in 1985.

We know that 80% of overweight children go on to become overweight adults.

Overweight children are at increased risk of

• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• poor tolerance to exercise
• psychological problems

"Acting on Australia’s Weight" is a strategic plan developed in 1997 by the Commonwealth government to prevent overweight and obesity. Part of this plan will be to develop:

• national guidelines for physical activity
• to encourage schools to implement daily physical activity programs and to develop tuckshop policies consistent with Dietary Guidelines and Core Food Groups.

Weight Management - What your school can do (Click here for more information)

For more information Nutrition Australia recommends:

• Nutrition for Toddlers and Young Children
• Food for Young Aussies
• Tuckshop Team-mate
• Eating Activity Sport and You
• Healthy Food for Families
• Children's Nutrition Kit
• Feast or Famine - Feeding Kids Right (90 minute video)