Preventing Childhood Obesity
Preventing childhood obesity is very important and can help reduce the number of health problems that are associated with being obese. The obesity epidemic in children is more prevalent today than at any other time during recent history. Children need to live active lifestyles that include healthy amounts of physical activity along with a balanced diet. Providing the framework for being healthy should start in childhood, so that good habits are learned early.
Carrying around too much body fat is the simplest definition of obesity. Unfortunately, it can happen to anyone, even children. Children that are obese often suffer from ailments that are directly related to their weigh such as:
Bone and joint problems
Skin rashes and fungal infections
Early onset heart disease
Type II Diabetes
If obesity continues into adolescence and adulthood, these conditions can worsen and new conditions will emerge. Your child will be at higher risk for conditions such as:
Heart attack and stroke
High blood pressue
Depression
Cancer
What Are the Causes?
Understanding the risk factors can help in preventing childhood obesity. One factor in childhood obesity is genetics. If both parents are obese, a child’s risk of developing obesity is high. Another key factor is an unhealthy diet. A diet that is low in nutritional value and full of empty calories, sugars and saturated fats can easily contribute to being overweight. Pre-packaged and processed foods along with high amounts of fast food are known to pack on the pounds – whether you’re an adult or a child.
Children that sit around watching too much TV or playing video games for hours on end on a daily basis are also at risk for developing obesity. It is recommended by numerous doctors and health advocates that children should watch television for no more than 2 hours a day. Physical activity such as riding a bike, playing tag or playing at a park is infinitely better for children. A sedentary lifestyle during childhood can lead to a sedentary lifestyle as an adult. Learning good eating habits and exercise habits early can lead to being healthier as an adult.
Sometimes hormonal imbalances due to problems with the thyroid gland can be a cause of obesity. Simple tests can be done to determine if a child has thyroid problems. Medications can be prescribed and this can help a child maintain the correct weight. However, certain medications like steroids can also cause a spike in weight. Most of the time when the medication is stopped, their weight will return to normal.
Children that are obese are more prone to psychological and mental issues as well. Disorders such as depression and low self-esteem are more prevalent in children that are overweight. They often feel ostracized by their peers, and that feeling can become stronger as they age. Sometimes their physical limitations leave them feeling weak and lead to others making fun of them. Preventing childhood obesity can help prevent many different types of physical and emotional problems.
Help in preventing childhood obesity by:
Playing with your children outside
Instilling healthy eating habits at home
Limiting TV, computer, and videogame time
Encouraging your child to join sport activites they enjoy
Childhood obesity is a condition that can be prevented. Keeping your child physically active and providing nutritious foods are both key factors to building healthy habits. Leading by example is one of the best ways to instill healthy habits in children. Knowing the causes of obesity can often times help prevent it from happening.
Other Obesity Articles
Definition of Obesity - You have to learn what obesity is before you can learn how to fight back.
Causes of Obesity - What causes obesity and how can you fight back.
Treatments for Obesity - Learn the best way to treat your obesity.
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