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Knowing About Childhood Obesity

24th September, 2009 - Posted by health news - No Comments

Studies indicate that the obesity epidemic starts at an early age. Approximately 80% of children who were obese during their youth (10 to 15 years of age) became obese adults by the age of 25. Additionally, if children are overweight before they’re eight years old, then their adult obesity will be more severe.

Childhood obesity is linked with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and a wide range of health problems. Yet, no single factor is said to cause overweight children, but rather a combination of genetic, behavioral and environmental factors.

At its most basic level, obesity epidemic is caused by the consumption of more calories than the child can use, which causes the remaining calories to be stored as fat.

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In rare cases, genetics can play a role in the obesity of children with Prader-Willi syndrome, although behavioral factors, like the consumption of high calorie foods, minimal physical activity and a lack of supervision, are more likely contributors to weight gain.

The importance of a healthy diet for children cannot be overstated, nor can the need for daily physical activity, since studies show the patterns a child develops early in life tend to remain with him or her for life.

If left untreated, childhood obesity can lead to a number of problems, both physical and psychosocial. Physically, 70% of obese 5 to 17-year-olds have at least one cardiovascular disease risk factor already, whether it is high blood pressure, high cholesterol or abnormal glucose tolerance, and 25% have at least two risk factors.

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Obesity is also the leading cause of American diabetes, as 60% of diabetics are also overweight. More immediate health problems include sleep apnea, hepatic steatosis (fatty degeneration of the liver), kidney failure and asthma. Psychologically, obese adolescents become the targets of social stigmatization, which can leave lasting emotional scars that may never fully heal.

To combat childhood obesity, be sure to encourage healthy diet. Serve nutritious dinners and encourage healthy snacking by offering fruits and vegetables, rather than chips and cookies.

Helping your son or daughter to stay active will not only prevent excessive weight gain, but it will also improve self esteem and coordination, reduce stress and anxiety, decrease blood pressure and strengthen bones.

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Instead of letting your child “veg out” in front of the TV or computer for hours each day, encourage after-school sports, bike rides, karate, swimming, dance and other physical activities.

While you may be playing the role of “meanie” today, your child will ultimately respect you and love you for the discipline that you showed.