Readers believe that the suggestions outlined in the book are helpful, with 85 percent of participants stating the nutrition tips are useful, and 67 percent stating the tips about physical activity are helpfulRegarding using the book's practical advice, 78 percent of readers felt sure or very sure that people who read the book can practice at least one of the tips in the bookSurvey participants reported that 87 percent of people they had passed the book onto reacted positively, with the other 13 percent responding that they had the book themselves but had not passed it on to others yetAnd 97 percent said they were likely to pass Be Well onto someone else

Part of the book's success has been the readers' ability to identify with the moms' stories presented in Be Well.  While 52 percent of survey recipients identified with all of the moms in the book, some of the following stories emerged as favorites:

Jamilia, an Oakland mom with a family history of heart disease and Type 2 diabetes that realized her children's health was her responsibilityAshley, a Houston mom who runs each night with her two sonsEmilia, an Austin Mom who found affordable resources to help her family become more activeRosa, a Chicago mom who made small changes that made a big impact on her family's health

In addition, survey participants provided insight to some of the challenges they face in implementing the book's advice in their own homes.  Eighty percent said a barrier to providing healthier choices for their children is the high cost of healthy food.  Participants also expressed challenges in making their children more active, with 69 percent citing playing video games, 56 percent citing watching TV, and 51 percent citing playing on the computer as their children's preferable activities to exercise. Decreasing screen time is one of the major levers the book suggests to prevent childhood obesity.

As the book continues to spread into community centers, schools and homes across the nation, the challenges remain clear. Children must have access to affordable, healthy food options and participate in regular physical activity to stay healthy and avoid obesity.

Be Well is available free online at www.BeWellBook, in English and Spanish versions, and through local schools and community centers around the nation. The aim of the book is to make it accessible to any parent who wants to start their children on a healthy path.

SOURCE Michael & Susan Dell Foundation