Obesity and Teenagers
Obesity among teenagers is a problem that seems to have gotten much worse over the years. One of the biggest factors of teenage obesity is that teens are getting much less exercise than the older generations use to. With the rise in popularity of computer games, video games, and chatting on the Internet, teens are not involved in many physical activities.
Couple the lack of exercise with the convenience of fast food (containing very large portions), teen obesity is steadily on the rise. In fact, statistics say that one out of every three teens is considered overweight or obese; this statistic is very scary. Parents may wonder what causes obesity and what can they do to help keep their teens from being one of the statistics.
What causes obesity?
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 settling down the rest of the evening in front of the computer or television, they more than likely will have weight issues. Poor 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 teen?
There are many ways that parents can help their teenagers from falling into the obesity trap. Parents play a vital role in raising their children and teens, and ultimately it is up to you, the parent.
First, parents should set a good example. Parents themselves should be getting 30-60 minutes of exercise daily. Encourage your teenagers to participate with you. Exercise can be fun and bring families closer together. A nice stroll after dinner, a bike ride through the neighborhood, or a hike on the weekend are all great ways to exercise the body and mind, all while bonding with your loved-ones.
Second, the food that you bring into the home is very important to the overall health of your children. Bringing cookies, ice cream, and doughnuts into the home on a regular basis will definitely affect the waistline of you and your children. By providing your teenagers with healthy meals and snacks, you are taking an active role in helping them to be healthy, strong, productive members of society.
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