Lidl Backs UCF On Healthier Kids Diet

Local stores in an international food retail chain are teaming up with a top cancer charity in a bid to promote healthy eating.

The Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) and the International Union Against Cancer (UICC) - a global consortium of cancer organisations - will lead a year-long communication, education and advocacy effort to encourage children to eat a healthy diet, be physically active and maintain a healthy body weight.

As part of the campaign, UCF in partnership with Lidl, are running a competition called the 'Lidl Fit Factor Challenge', which is designed to promote healthy eating and physical activity to children across Northern Ireland.

'I love my healthy active childhood!' marks World Cancer Day - Wednesday 4 February 2009.

"The campaign's core messages highlight that being overweight can lead to cancer later in life and it aims to encourage children to eat a healthy diet and be physically active," said Gerry McElwee, Head of Cancer Prevention, UCF.

"Research shows that around one third of all cancers could be prevented if we eat a varied diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, maintain a healthy weight and lead an active lifestyle.

"It is also widely recognised that many lifelong habits are formed during a child's early years.

"Therefore communicating positive healthy lifestyle messages in childhood will help children maintain a healthy body weight.

"It will also help them adopt a positive outlook to food and exercise, and carry this through to adulthood, thus reducing their future risk of cancer," he said.

Gerry McElwee added: "Research shows that the overall level of physical activity is declining amongst children.

"This is due to a number of factors such as increased use of cars and buses for travelling to school and social outings; concerns from parents about allowing children to play safely outdoors and greater access to computers and television," he explained, noting that it is recommended that children and young people take at least 60 minutes moderately intense physical activity each day such as running, swimming, football, skateboarding, skipping and lots more.

The resource includes an interactive game that encourages children to shop for healthy balanced meals and can also be used by parents and teachers who are not participating in the Lidl Fit Factor Challenge by clicking onto www.fitfactor.co.uk

(BMcC/JM)