Latte Built 24hrFitness gym in Chalan Kanoa offers kids’ classes several times per week.
THE Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands faces a challenging reality: it has some of the highest per capita rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease among U.S. territories. Much of this health crisis is rooted in long-standing dietary habits that date back to the post-World War II era, when processed meats and canned goods became essential to local diets due to their convenience and availability. Over time, these foods became staples in households, embedding themselves into CNMI’s culture. However, with a renewed focus on nutrition and lifestyle education within the household, parents have an opportunity to reshape the future by instilling healthier habits in the next generation.
Educating children about nutrition at an early age is essential to breaking the cycle of unhealthy eating habits. Instead of relying on highly processed foods marketed to kids, like sugary cereals, Pop-Tarts, juice boxes, sodas, and frozen snack foods, families can introduce fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Teaching children about the benefits of these foods helps them understand how they fuel their bodies better than processed options. Involving kids in meal preparation can make them more excited about nutritious choices, empowering them to select healthier options as they grow older.
Physical activity is another critical element in promoting a healthy lifestyle, especially in an era when children are exposed to more screen time and sedentary activities. Encouraging kids to participate in sports, dance, swimming, or even family walks can foster an active lifestyle. Regular physical activity not only supports a healthy weight but also improves cardiovascular health, builds self-confidence, and reduces stress. Latte Built 24hrFitness gym in Chalan Kanoa offers kids’ classes several times per week, providing structured opportunities to build strength, stamina, and endurance in a safe and engaging environment. Establishing these habits early on helps children see movement as a natural, enjoyable part of life.
To address the high rates of diabetes and heart disease, it’s essential for families to teach kids about the dangers of excessive sugar and processed fats. While sugary drinks, like sodas and juice boxes, and processed snacks may be convenient, overconsumption can lead to significant health problems over time. Teaching children about these risks encourages moderation rather than restriction, helping them understand that these foods are for occasional enjoyment. Parents can demonstrate balance in their food choices and discuss the long-term effects of consuming too much sugar and unhealthy fats, giving children the tools to make better choices on their own.
Creating a household environment that encourages healthy choices can also include reading ingredient labels together to spot additives, preservatives, and high-fructose corn syrup in popular kids’ foods. This kind of food literacy empowers children to understand what they’re putting into their bodies, fostering a curiosity about ingredients and a habit of questioning what’s in their food. This awareness will serve them well throughout their lives, guiding them toward more natural and nourishing choices.
By making these small yet impactful changes within the household, parents in CNMI can empower their children with knowledge and habits that support lifelong health. Though past generations may not have had access to this type of education, today’s families have the tools to make a meaningful impact on the health of future generations. With early education and support at home, today’s children can grow up equipped to make better choices, setting the stage for a healthier CNMI.
The author is the owner of Latte Built 24hr Fitness, which is located directly in front of Aquarius hotel on Beach Road in Chalan Kanoa. For more information, call (670) 235-2265.
