A COURSE to help families makes healthy lifestyle choices will soon start in Eastleigh.

The ten-week Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do It! programme aims to promote healthy lifestyles and address issues associated with being overweight.

It is for children aged five to 13 and their families, and will look at food labelling, types of food, how much and what types of food people need and fun ways to be active as a family.

The free interactive sessions are commissioned by Public Health at Hampshire County Council and co-ordinated by Sport Hampshire and Isle of Wight.

Cllr Liz Fairhurst, executive member for adult social care and public health, said: “Being above a healthy weight during childhood can lead to serious problems later in life and increases the likelihood of developing conditions such as type-two diabetes and coronary heart disease.

“The MEND approach is not a diet and no foods are off-limits. It simply aims to empower children and adults to become fitter, healthier and happier through a greater understanding of food and exercise, and to reach or maintain a healthier weight.”

MEND starts at Eastleigh’s Pavilion on the Park on Monday, October 6, from 4pm-6pm.

For more information go to hants.gov.uk/weight-parentscarers.htm.