Child Obesity And Health

In America alone, it is estimated that at least 17% of children and teens between the ages of 2 and 19 are overweight or obese and the numbers are growing every year. And, children and teens that are overweight have an alarming 70% chance of being overweight or obese even after reaching adulthood.

The problems of child obesity don't just last through childhood. It will follow them into adulthood and cause health problems that will last a lifetime. Obesity has became so wide spread that many health professionals are referring to it as an epidemic!

The factors that contribute to heart disease such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, appear more often in overweight children. Other problems stemming from obesity include respiratory disorders, sleep apnea and many orthopedic disorders from damaged joints to back problems.

Once considered a disease that inflicted adults, Type 2 diabetes is showing up in children and adolescents much more often. Diabetes is now afflicting many obese children before they even reach puberty. And, this form of diabetes has been closely linked to being overweight or obese.

There are many other health problems that obese children potentially face. But, obesity doesn't just cause physical health problems it also causes problems with emotional health. It's one of the major causes of depression in this age group.

The Journal of the American Medical Association published a study on the emotional effects of obesity on children. The study revealed that obese children had the same low outlook on life as children that had cancer and was going through chemotherapy!

Overweight or obese children are often teased, picked on and bullied throughout their young lives. Their self esteem gets beaten away and their hope for the future is very low. They may often feel exiled, alone and even worthless.

Many times the emotional problems that obese children face causes behavior problems. Some children might become rebellious or defiant and lash out. While others may just become the class clown, or do bad things to get other children to like them and accept them.

Obesity is now classified as a disease and is expected to be a major health concern for the 21st century. While obesity can be an inherited disease, more often it's the result of an unhealthy diet and an inactive lifestyle. It can even result from stress in the world around them.

A child going through a divorce or the loss of a loved one may turn to food for comfort. Pay close attention to your child's eating habits. Do they look for something to eat when they get stressed or upset? Do they turn to food when family members argue?

If you see signs they're using food to comfort themselves, do your part to remove the stress from their lives. Seek professional help if you have to, counseling may help them learn to deal with their emotions instead of eating.

As a parent you can do your part to help your child by encouraging and even monitoring their diets. Serve foods that are low in fats, cholesterol and sugars. Keep a selection of fresh fruits at hand instead of candy or snacks. Grill more of your foods instead of frying them and make fast food an occasional treat instead of a regular meal!

Plan family outings to encourage activity such as bike rides, hikes or long walks. Even something as simple as going to the pool for the day will get your children up and moving. Anything that encourages activity can help your child with weight loss. Changing your child's lifestyle into a healthy one is an investment in their future!

Child Obesity In America

Child Obesity Facts

Child Obesity Statistics

The Truth About Child Obesity

Child Obesity Articles

Child Obesity And Physical Education Requirements

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The contents of this lens are Copyright 2008 Mildred Stewart, all rights reserved. Images are assumed to be in the public domain, if I have made a mistake contact me.