Obesity And Children Today
Obesity is a problem that is continually on the rise. Not only does obesity affect adults, but is now affecting children. In fact, statistics say that one out of every three children is considered overweight or obese; this statistic is alarming. Parents may wonder what causes obesity and what can they do to help keep their children from being one of the statistics.
What Causes Obesity?
So what causes weight gain and obesity? There are a few factors that lead to this health condition. Remember, just like you can't lose weight overnight, you can't exactly gain it overnight. Our health is directly related to the lifestyle that we live over the years. If we have unhealthy eating habits and do not exercise, then this will reflect on how we look. The same is true for children.
If they consistently come home from school, get a bowl of ice cream and a handful of cookies, and then sit down the rest of the evening in front of the television, they more than likely will have weight issues. Bad eating habits and lack of exercise are two of the main culprits of weight gain. Genetics and other health conditions such as thyroid problems may also lead to weight gain and obesity. However, with the help of a family doctor, and again, with diet and exercise, a child's weight can be managed.
How Can I Help My Child?
What can parent's do to help their children stay active and maintain a healthy weight? First, they themselves must be a good example to their children. Parents must eat healthy and exercise. It does no good to get after your child for being "lazy" while you are sitting on the sofa snacking on buttered popcorn. Second, you must shop for and prepare healthy food. There are so many low-calorie and low-fat alternatives to higher calorie/fat foods. Learn what these foods are and cook with them whenever possible. Also, you must have healthy snacks available to your children at all times; after all, aren't kids always hungry?
Third, parents should plan fun and active outings for and participate with their children. Daily walks are a good way to catch up on your child's life. What a great time to find out what they are doing at school, who their friends are, and what hobbies they are interested in. You might even find out who they have a crush on. Weekends could consist of hiking, biking, or running with the entire family. Having an active lifestyle will greatly help to manage your child's weight.
Lastly, like to old saying goes, "knowledge is power." It is important for parents and their children to become educated on nutrition. Read and study food labels together. Learn about calories, fat grams and carbohydrates together as a family.
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