Uprise in Childhood Obesity

Being overweight during childhood can lead to a variety of adult diseases: coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, certain cancers, gallbladder disease, arthritis, gout and restricted mobility. Compared to normal-weight children, overweight children are sick longer, are more susceptible to complications from surgery, more susceptible to infections, and experience delayed healing. Menstrual problems are more prone in overweight females. There is also a self-image/self-esteem issue, which is critical to positive human development.

Here are a few suggestions relating to childhood obesity:

Feed your child a variety of foods that are balanced with physical activity. Encourage your child to be active.

Provide a diet that is low in fat and saturated fat and cholesterol; high in fiber; moderate in sugars, salt and sodium.

Modify your kid's favorite foods rather than introducing unfamiliar ones.

Decrease salt when cooking. Include fresh foods and fewer processed ones. Choose leaner cuts of meat and strictly limit red meat.

Always keep a fresh supply of milk on hand for your child. We all know the benefits of milk – stronger bones, whiter teeth, extra calcium.

Find out what foods your child is eating away from home, such as during school.

Encourage your child to drink water, a precious and necessary cleansing agent.

If your child is overweight, seek professional help. An overweight child can be locked in emotional misery. If eating habits and current lifestyle are not altered, your child may be doomed to a lifetime of chronic health problems. If stress is influencing your child, take your child off the emotional roller coaster.

Set an example. You are a very important 'pattern' in your child's life. Share activities with your child. Try getting them involved in the kitchen where they can learn firsthand the basics of healthy cooking.

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