Breakfast is the most important meal of the day for weight control. And the amount of time spent in sedentary activities is a strong predictor of weight gain.

The closer children are to their parents, the more likely they are to internalize the values and norms that their parents promote or model. Nearly two-thirds of adults are overweight and 30 percent are obese.

Our research suggests that prevention must begin at home. We need a public health campaign that educates all adults and children in the home on the importance of creating a family environment that promotes healthy habits.

Other reasons might include overeating due to separation anxiety when the child leaves the home, or parents not wanting to criticize their children's eating habits when they are young.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day for weight control. And the amount of time spent in sedentary activities is a strong predictor of weight gain.

Our research suggests that prevention must begin at home. We need a public health campaign that educates all adults and children in the home on the importance of creating a family environment that promotes healthy habits.