According to the University of Michigan, more than 15% of all children in the U.S. are obese. This may not seem like a great number but if your child ranks in that 15%, you undoubtedly are concerned. Today many children are suffering from sedentary lifestyles that are accentuated by lack of exercise and consumption of empty calories that help to pack on extra pounds. Although many children are genetically predisposed to obesity due to being born to obese parents, whose parents were also obese, this does not have to be the end of the story for any child who is suffering from obesity.
Children who are obese are at risk for developing conditions such as high blood pressure, Type II diabetes and other heart-related conditions, all of which stem from the amount of fat in the blood and around the heart. It is important to understand that children who are obese and grow into obese adults may be shortening their lifespan significantly.
Thanks to the many technologically-savvy toys that have been developed, many children spend a significant time in front of the television playing with such toys and games. Likewise, the Internet claims a great deal of time for children who like to surf the web and play games online. These modern day babysitters are great at keeping our children still for hours at a time but the result is that our children are not getting enough exercise to stay in shape. Especially when contrasted with how much food they are eating.
Another problem that many children in the U.S. are facing has been the elimination of extracurricular activities, sports, and in some cases, even gym classes due to budgetary constraints. This adds a few more hours each day when children are simply sitting still rather than moving around playing or exercising in gym class.
So how do you help get rid of those extra, unwanted pounds? First, be willing to admit that your child is obese. Find out what your child’s ideal weight is and if your child is more than 20% larger than their ideal weight, they are obese. Childhood obesity is not a death sentence for your child but instead an opportunity for you to help.
A visit to your child’s primary physician for a physical and diet plan can start you on your way. Depending on your child’s size, the doctor may suggest various kinds of exercise that your child can participate in on a regular basis, in addition to proper eating habits. Chances are both diet and exercise will be met with objections. Try to agree on a prize or reward for success at diet and exercise.
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