Did you know that 15% of children between the ages of 6 and 19 are overweight?

Childhood obesity has been steadily increasing over the years. Research has proven that obesity can lead to other health implications including diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

Healthy Choices, Healthy Kids is a state initiative that focuses on partnering with local schools, teachers and parents to ensure that the nutritional needs of New Jersey's children are met and to encourage physical activity.

The state is sponsoring the "10,000 steps" program, which provides students with pedometers and monitors their Body Mass Index. To learn more about how the state is combating child obesity contact the New Jersey Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Child Nutrition Programs.