5 kid health myths debunked

Being overweight is not genetic. If you've heard otherwise, consider it a myth, says Scholastic Parent & Child magazine. There are very few inherited conditions that cause someone to be overweight. In fact, if everyone in a family is heavy and kids are following the same path, it's because lifestyle habits have been passed down through generations, not because weightiness is in the genes.

Ever hear yourself muttering these words to explain why your child is not exercising: "My kid's not athletic." Hey, guess what? You don't need to be athletic to be fit. One 30-minute walk every day -- a power walk, not a stroll -- is all one needs to achieve fitness. I'm not athletic. Still, I've found a way to be a pretty good runner.

Another kid myth: Talking about weight encourages eating disorders. Nope. But here's a fact: Talking about it in a positive light, focusing on exercise and not weight, and rewarding kids not with food but with activities and time together will help steer your kids in the right direction.

"It's just baby fat." Not always. If a child is obese before the age of six, chances are he or she will be obese as an adult. Check with your pediatrician for healthy weight ranges for your kids.

Finally, don't buy into the myth that kids should not snack between meals. Nibbling on healthy items, like fruit and nuts can prevent overeating at mealtimes.