Three Ways to Prevent Childhood Obesity
As a society, we are failing in our efforts to keep our children healthy. Healthcare professionals, educational institutions, and the food and beverage industry should all be held accountable. Learn how to help fight childhood obesity in three ways. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “Childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and tripled in adolescents in the past 30 years.” Fat children are more likely to become overweight or obese adults. At this rate, we are headed toward having a mostly obese culture. Overweight and obese children are at an increased risk for a number of health-related problems, including (but not limited to) cardiovascular disease, diabetes, sleep disorders, poor self-esteem, and bone or joint problems. Here are the steps we can take to slow and prevent this frightening epidemic: 1. Diet Modification: The average American child consumes entirely too many carbohydrates in the form of high fructose corn syrup, sugars, and low-fiber, starchy carbs. One major problem is that most parents don’t realize how terrible regular soft drinks, juices, and sodas are for kids. These are empty calories and should be avoided in large quantities and replaced with water. Kids also need plenty of fresh vegetables and fruit, and lean protein in the form of chicken breast, fish, lean beef, eggs, or tofu. There should be a balance between, carbs, fats, and protein. Right now, most American children are eating a disproportionately high amount of carbohydrates.
2. Increased Physical Activity: Unfortunately, as funding for physical education classes continues to decline, American children are at an increased risk for health problems related to obesity. Hours spent in front of the TV, computer, or playing video games should be kept to a minimum, and outdoor activity should be increased. I’ve found that by participating in physical activity with my children, I’m more successful at getting them to work out than if I say “go outside and get some exercise.” Find a balance between different methods of encouraging them to be fit. 3. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles Wellness and living a healthy are values that should be taught to your child, and incorporated into their daily lives. Children learn from example. Parents should exercise regularly, get adequate sleep, and eat a nutritious diet. Lots of children eat out of boredom. Help them to replace this habit with enriching activities like participating in a new sport, or extracurricular class. Make health a priority by participating in active lifestyle events within your community and working with your child’s school to encourage healthy programming. The long-term health effects for obese children are frightening. They are more likely to suffer from heart disease, stroke, osteoarthritis and cancer. All of this can be prevented by engaging in healthy lifestyle habits, increased activity, and diet modification.
Wishing You Health and Happiness,
Honey Baby Naturals
Staff Writer: Holly Lowe Jones
