Childhood obesity is an escalating epidemic in the US. According to the Center for Disease Control one in six children and teens in the US are obese. When a person is diagnosed as obese it means that they have too much body fat. Obesity is more dangerous than being overweight. Both conditions are unhealthy but obesity can lead to very serious health complications.
The causes of obesity are poor eating habits and lack of exercise or physical activity. Determining childhood obesity can be difficult because children are not fully developed. They are still growing and no two children grow at the same rate. This can make it difficult for a parent to determine if it’s normal weight gain or the beginning of a health problem.
Parents should consult their child’s pediatrician about their concerns. The pediatrician can advise you and your child about healthy food choices. The pediatrician can also determine if your child’s weight and height are in a healthy range. They can also help monitor your child’s growth and weight. If your child is determined to be obese their pediatrician may recommend certain food restrictions as well as a diet modification. They will also discuss ways that the entire family can eat healthier. It may also be recommended that your child start a physical fitness program.
Children that are obese have an increased risk of depression, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, heartburn and problems in school. They are more likely to suffer socially. Their problem with weight can cause them to become withdrawn. Children who suffer from obesity are at a higher risk of becoming obese adults. The health risks are even worse for these individuals.
You can promote a healthy lifestyle at home by making more fruits and vegetables available. Instead of buying junk food choose healthier snacks. Encourage your family and your children to eat healthier. If you eat out a lot, reduce these outings to once a week. When you do eat out choose a restaurant that has healthier food choices.
In addition to eating healthy, it is also very important to get physically active. You should find fun physical activities you can do with your family. At least once a week you can go bowling or skating. If you are on a budget you could also just go to the park and take a walk on a trail. The goal is to get everyone involved and active. Some families take a walk together every evening after dinner. It’s a great way to bond with your family as well as get exercise.
Childhood obesity can be prevented by monitoring what your child eats. Make sure your child is involved in physical activities that they enjoy. They can participate in sports or other physical activities at their school for free. It is easier for your child to stay active if the activity is one that they enjoy. Exercise can be enjoyable. It doesn’t have to be a chore. The best prevention of childhood obesity is to teach your child healthy eating habits when they are very young. Avoid rewarding your child with food or treats. Restrict their overall intake of candy, junk food and sugary drinks. It’s hard to break bad eating habits once they are started.
