WITH childhood obesity a significant problem in Fenland, families are being encouraged to eat well, move more and live longer. Through a government initiative called Changed4Life parents are being helped to understand obesity and are receiving support to

WITH childhood obesity a significant problem in Fenland, families are being encouraged to eat well, move more and live longer.

Through a government initiative called Changed4Life parents are being helped to understand obesity and are receiving support to make healthy lifestyle choices.

The initiative is being supported by NHS Cambridgeshire and its Assistant Director of Public Health Val Thomas said: "Overweight children and childhood obesity is a significant problem both nationally and at a local level with recent Cambridgeshire figures identifying that 30 per cent of children are now above an ideal weight for their height by the time they reach the end of their primary school years."

The Change4Life approach was endorsed by Dr Toni Steer, Public Health Dietician for Cambridgeshire Community Services who said: "Evidence shows that both children and adults become accustomed to portion sizes. We get used to eating bigger and bigger portions, yet don't feel fuller.

"Bigger portions mean more calories. Cutting portion sizes is key for controlling weight.