Children graduate from healthy eating course » Health » 24dash.com

Eight healthier children graduated from a healthy eating and fitness programme in Tower Hamlets.

The council run MEND programme, a scheme which tackles childhood obesity has been developed over the last six years, using scientific research that empowers children and families with the knowledge and skills to tackle the problem.

Each programme focuses on the elements that make up MEND – Mind, Exercise, Nutrition…Do it!

This is the borough’s first MEND programme and children and their families have been attending sessions at Langdon Park Sports Centre every Monday and Friday.

During the first hour they look at healthy eating and during the second hour the children take part in physical activities whilst their parents continue with room based tasks.

Brenda Newman has been attending the sessions with her son, Liam. She said: “It’s been a really big eye opener with regards to portion sizes and exercise. And it’s not just about the parents, Liam is also learning about healthy eating and he’s now making good choices about the food he wants to eat.

“We’ve already noticed a difference. We’ll definitely be keeping up the good work as it’s for Liam’s heath.”

Seven year old Sheikh Abdullah, has really enjoyed the programme. He said: “We’ve played so many games, and learnt all about food and fats and sugars. And I’ve made many friends.”

His mother, Sabiha Ahmed, added: “The course has been really helpful. Some foods in shops look good to eat but they contain a lot of hidden fats. We now know what to look for when checking the ingredients so we can make sure that we’re eating healthy foods.”

On graduating from the programme each child was presented with a certificate and a special card which highlighted their achievements throughout the programme.

A special team of council officers were trained to deliver the MEND Programme in Tower Hamlets earlier this year.

Two further courses will run from October from Mile End Park Leisure Centre and Whitechapel Leisure Centre.

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