A Guide To child obesity epidemic
These days, we hear and read a lot about child obesity epidemic. Being obese can cause some serious health concerns in children such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia, heart diseases, bone abnormalities, sleep apnea, psychological problems and gastro-intestinal diseases. These problems usually continue in the adulthood as well, as child obesity research has shown that obese kids are at a higher risk of becoming obese adults.
However, it is possible for the parents to influence the lifestyle of their children and help then attain and maintain a healthy weight.
How Parents Can Help Deal With Child Obesity Epidemic
Parents must pay close attention to their kids so that they kids have a feeling of belongingness. Kids who are not tended by their parents are usually at higher risk of getting overweight. Do not nag the kids during mealtime or closely monitor the amounts consumed by them, as this may interfere with child’s natural response of feeling hungry and full.
Do not focus too much on the weight. It is more important to have good eating habits and get daily exercise. Worrying too much about weight leads to abnormal eating behaviours.
Limit the television time for your child. There is direct correlation between degree of overweight and amount of time spent in watching television, as it replaces the physical activity, and reduces the metabolism. Television can also indirectly affect kids through advertisements, and prompt them to consume junk foods and beverages that can add to the child obesity epidemic.
If there are signs that your chid is overweight or is at a risk of becoming obese, consult the paediatrician as soon as you can, to prevent obesity at the earliest. Mothers-to-be do not really need to eat for two, and overeating during pregnancy can put both mother and child at the risk of becoming obese. It is important to peastfeed for at least a year. During early infancy, emphasize more on fruits, grains and vegetables and follow on child’s cues regarding hunger and fullness.
If your child is at the risk of obesity, try to give low-fat milk. Avoid sugary and fatty snacks, as they are high in empty calories. For school-age children, set firm rules regarding television, healthy snack choices, occasional treats and general food habits.
The problem of child obesity epidemic does not remain same, but keeps increasing year after year, and since 1980, the rise has been dangerously high. Child obesity epidemic is a serious threat to our future generations, and now is the time we start to address it worldwide.
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