Cause of the Day: Childhood Obesity

The cases of child obesity are increasing day by day. There are proven research results to ratify this statement. According to one survey, the number of obese children has doubled during the period of last three decades. Being overweight does not only mean to be over in size but it has certain complications attached to it. The succeeding information will make you understand the facts of Childhood obesity.

The Facts:

• There is alarming increase in the number of children and adolescents developing Type-2 Diabetes (also termed as adult-onset diabetes) due to being overweight.
• The high levels of cholesterol and high blood pressure, that are some of the main risk factors for development of heart diseases, are found in most of the obese children.
• Sleep Apnea (interruption of breath while sleeping) is considered as the most severe problem faced by obese children.  In rare cases, this sleep apnea may lead to other problems like difficulty in learning and memory.
• Obese children are on higher risk of developing, liver diseases, orthopedic problems and asthma.
• More than 70% obese adolescents retain their overweight and obese condition even during their adulthood.

Tips for Parents:

• Support your children to overcome this condition.  Never remind the child or single out him about his obese condition.  He is well aware about the fact.  Child requires encouragement, love and acceptance.
• Prepare a schedule for your child for how much time he should spent in recreational activities (TV or computer) every day.
• You family activities must involve physical exercise.  You can motivate your child to undertake activities like walking, jogging, hiking or even washing car or gardening instead of allowing him to spend more time in watching TV or playing computer games.
• Choose activities that are easy and your child will enjoy doing it.
• Never dine in front of television.  You must dine together at table.  Give adequate time for dinning and enjoy your meals.
• You should not put any restrictions on your child’s diet, unless suggested by your doctor.  Never consider food as a punishment or a reward.  Food is important for energy, growth and development of child.
• Ensure your child’s involvement in grocery shopping and meal planning.  This is a way of teaching them and developing their decision making abilities.
• Always keep nutritious snacks like low-fat cheese, fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen or canned), frozen fruit juice bars, yogurt or ice cream, vanilla wafers, graham crackers, fig bars, gingersnaps etc, handy and give them to your child instead of giving high-fat or junk food.
• Try to alter eating habits and activities gradually.  Once developed, these habits will help your child to maintain good health throughout lifetime.