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There is a growing concern over childhood obesity, especially in first world countries like the United States. This is because recent statistics suggest that obesity in children ages 6-17 has increased significantly in the last 20 years.
In the late 1980s, child obesity affected 10% of American children between the ages of 6-17, but in a little over 20 years the numbers have risen to some researchers suggesting 1 in every 4 or 5 children, or as much as 20% of children. With this, many researchers are beginning to suggest that this is becoming an epidemic in America. |
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Can you help prevent obesity in your children?
Of course, childhood obesity is not simply a concern of vanity, but mostly of health. As adolescent obesity rises, so do the rates of Type 2 Diabetes in children, as well as other health related illnesses such as heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. Although many of these illnesses might not arise until post-childhood years, they are beginning to affect younger adults at alarming rates.
Besides health related concerns, there are also concerns over social and personal issues, from fitting in with other adolescents to self-esteem issues. There has also been an increase in adolescent depression, which many doctors are linking to child obesity.
So what is the cause of obesity in children and how can it be prevented? Of course there are a number of cases where child obesity is directly linked to a genetic condition, such as a thyroid condition, which needs to be controlled with medication and a doctor’s monitoring. But the sudden increase suggests that there is a link to the availability of fatty foods, especially those from many fast foods restaurants, the availability of sodas and sugary juices, as well as limited exercise on a daily basis.
Although there is not a definitive obesity solution for children, many school systems are starting to take notice of ways in which childhood obesity can further be prevented. This includes adding additional gym classes or outdoor recess time that was previously removed in many school systems, as well as adding health choices on school lunch menus. Many school systems have even begun removing soda machines and snack machines from the school grounds in an effort to limit excess calorie and sugar intake from these foods and beverages.
Doing this at school is great, since it is difficult to monitor what your child eats away from home, but it is also important to promote a healthy lifestyle while at home. This includes limiting television and computer game playing time, as well as providing a balanced meal for children. Since children usually mimic what their parents are doing, most doctors will recommend that parents also try and promote this healthier lifestyle by also choosing portions of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as low-fat meats and whole grains.
As well, planning family activities that include exercise can help children find an obesity solution. If a family bicycle ride or walk with the dog is scheduled on a daily basis, children will see this as a family group activity rather than an exercise chore. It can also help mom and dad to stay fit and healthy as well.
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