Teens Driving Safely, Eating Poorly

A new survey shows that Ohio’s teens are practicing safe driving habits, but they’re still not making the best choices when it comes to diet and exercise.

Medical Director at the Zanesville-Muskingum County Health Department Dr. Vicki Whitacre said the 2011 Youth Risk Behavior Survey questioned almost 1,500 Ohio students in grades 9 through 12.

"Children are wearing their seat belts, and about 80% of them know they shouldn’t ride with somebody who has been drinking," said Whitacre.

Whitacre said when looking at dietary behaviors, most teens are not getting enough nutrition from their meals.  Only 7% of Ohio teens report eating fruits and vegetables two or more times daily, and 30% report a height and weight that classify them as overweight or obese.

"Kids model their parents and peers," said Whitacre.  If the parents can try to make some of those changes themselves and do it with their children, they can present a healthy diet to them."

The survey focused on 11 major categories including nutrition, physical activity, drugs, violence and sexual behaviors.