Looking at Childhood Obesity
Posted on January 16th, 2007 by garyPosted in Diet, Nutrition
One of the biggest concerns for many families is childhood obesity. When should parents start to be concerned, what are the warning signs, what are the risks and dangers and what can they do set things on the right path.
According to some reports in the last 30 years childhood obesity has risen from under 5% to over 15% in 2000 (see report ). When kids start down the wrong path it’s often difficult to correct and can lead to a variety of social difficulties in addition to health concerns. Many experts say that the busier lives we lead directly contributes to this rise in obesity. For many parents is quick and easy to give their children processed or other quick junk food meals. When this is combined with an increase in sedentary activity such as playing console games or spending time in front of the computer, a dangerous combination occurs.
Children who are overweight usually have higher blood pressure and cholesterol, especially the bad cholesterol LDL . Other health problems include a greater likelihood of getting type 2 diabetes. Other help problems associated with childhood obesity are bone and joint problems and sleep apnea. However the most serious issue is overweight children may experience some level of social problem. The most common are self esteem issues, from being picked last on sports teams, to not many friends. This low self esteem problem can lead to a lack of confidence that can plague people through adulthood.
While many schools have taken an active role in trying to combat the problem the best place to start is the home. Schedule regular family home cooked meals instead of a take out restaurant. Eliminate or moderate portions for sweet and salty snacks like chips and cookies. Limit the amount of high sugar drinks like soda. Try to find ways to get the children up, outside and active. Get involved in sports or other activities. If that’s not an option get involved in healthy vacation.
Popularity: 10% [?]
