Summer Makes Kids Fat

Summer treats like sugary ice cream cones combined with a lack of exercise can leave your child fat by fall.

Wednesday, June 9, 2010 1:08 GMT

According to MeMe Roth, president of National Action Against Obesity, summer is when kids pack on the pounds because parents tend to be more lenient with sugary snacks.

Additionally, many children veg out all day in front of the TV instead of running around and playing outside.

Roth says that without excess treats, an average kid needs at least one hour of exercise each day. If they eat an ice cream cone, they should add “three to five miles of running” to their regimen.

A child should also be going to bed at a reasonable time – even in the summer – because it “regulates their hunger.”

Thus, Roth suggests parents keep their children on some sort of summer schedule and away from stuff like lemonade, cotton candy, and the “ultimate predator” – the ice cream man.

If they indulge, they should immediately exercise, otherwise they could end up with “man boobs” by fall.