It has been estimated that 1 out of 5 children is overweight. That is alarming. Childhood obesity is becoming the norm rather than the exception. As a mom of a child who is “at risk of being overweight”, I know how quickly this can happen and how diligent we need to be with portion control and what foods our children eat. My pediatrician told me on my child’s annual visit that he has the talk about childhood obesity at least five times or more a day. The Obesity Society says that childhood obesity is regarded as the most common prevalent nutritional disorder in the United States.
Health Concerns for Overweight Children:
Early Puberty
Type 2 Diabetes
Hypertension
Insulin Resistance
Sleep Apnea
Physical health is not the only thing affected. Many children suffer the emotional effects of being overweight. Children who are overweight are at a higher risk for eating disorders and low self esteem. Poor body image can lead to depression and withdrawal from social situations.
It is important as a parent to see the contributors to excessive weight gain and put an end to it. Parents need to take control of what their children eat and drink. Food choice is a main contributor in childhood obesity. Children who are overweight eat less fruits and vegetables and more sugary food. Parents need to replace sugary snacks and empty calories with fruit and vegetable selections. Making sure children do not skip meals or eat on an irregular schedule will decrease overeating. Another thing a parent can do is encourage healthy physical activity. Sign your child up for a sport or dance or play outside together for an hour a day. Another contributor is having an obese parent. Children of obese parents are more likely to struggle with weight in childhood and in adulthood. Being obese is not healthy for children or adults, so if you are an overweight parent get motivated to live a healthier lifestyle. If you make the effort to live better it will benefit you and your children.
Related Articles:
Teaching an Active Lifestyle from an Early Age
Helping Your Child Lose Weight