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Childhood Obesity: A Weighty Problem

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The epidemic of childhood obesity in this country is spiraling out of control at an alarming rate. During the past two decades, the number of overweight children in this country has more than doubled. More than 30% of children between the ages of six and 19 are overweight and 16% are clinically obese.

The effects of childhood obesity can have repercussions that last into adulthood. Some of the effects are high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Type II Diabetes, which was previously thought to be an adult disease, is now showing up in teens. Overweight children have increased chances of developing orthopedic problems because bone and cartilage in the process of development can’t bear the excess weight. Increased weight on the growth plate of the hip can cause pain and limit range of motion.

Aside from the chronic health problems associated with being overweight, obese children are also more likely to be injured in a vehicle accident because it is difficult to find child safety seats to accommodate them. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, manufacturers have been encouraged to design child safety seats for higher weights.

Obese children often suffer from low self-esteem and develop social skills at slower pace due to lower levels of socialization and interaction. In extreme conditions these develop into severe life threatening conditions such as anorexia and bulimia.

So why is the childhood obesity epidemic spiraling out of control? One of the biggest factors is lack of physical activity. Many children today are allowed to sit in front of computers and TV screens instead of going outside to play ball, ride bikes or go swimming. One third of all high school students report that they never participate in a vigorous activity.

Another contributing factor is our “convenience culture” where working parents find it much easier to drive through a fast food provider than to cook a meal at home. Sugary temptations are all around us and they are easily obtained. Soft drinks play a major role in childhood obesity to the point that many school systems throughout the country have banned soft drink vending machines.

Children who are raised in families with obese parents are more likely to be overweight. If one parent is overweight, their teen has an 80% chance of being overweight. This is probably a combination of genetics and family behaviors.

So what can we do? First of all, set a good example. Children emulate what they see. If they see their parents engaging in good exercise and nutritional habits, they will model those behaviors.

Following are some tips on how to help an overweight child:

• Never put your child on a low-calorie deprivation diet. You can lower dietary fat, but maintain calories by increasing the consumption of fruit, vegetables, cereals, and breads.
• Use vitamin supplements to ensure proper nutrition.
• Children who eat full meals do better nutritionally than children who merely snack. Your child should come to the table hungry, learn how to control hunger, and wait for his meal to be served.
• Remove snack temptations around the house.
• Don’t use desserts and sweets as rewards.
• Have family meals, and set a good example by eating a wide variety of foods.
• Make mealtime pleasant. Don’t use this time for criticizing and scolding.

Don’t let your child become part of this heartbreaking epidemic. Making changes can be challenging, especially when families juggle busy schedules and time constraints. But if your family works together and supports each other’s efforts, success is more likely. Eventually the changes will be incorporated and healthy habits become routine.