Childhood Obesity: Facts, Risks, and Prevention
It is unfortunate that we see a serious medical condition like childhood obesity affecting many children all over the world right now. Not only that it creates a social stigma early, it also exposes our children to a lot of health risks which can disrupt their supposedly innocent, free-spirited and normal childhood.
Childhood Obesity Facts and Figures
How childhood obesity increased? It is disturbing to know that the number of obese children has tripled, and almost quadrupled now than it was 30 years ago. In the US alone, statistics found that in 2012, a third of its child and adolescent population are already considered overweight or obese.
Being overweight, more so if obese puts your child at risk of suffering from long-term weight and health-related consequences. Later on in life, he or she might develop more severe and chronic diseases like cardiovascular, high cholesterol and diabetes. Not only physically, but it can also cause mental health conditions like depression and psychological problems due to stress and poor self-esteem.
What Causes Obesity in Children?
The number one culprit is genetics, but the most influential factor is poor holistic health and nutrition. Exposure to technology in early life slows down the physical activities of children, which is why childhood obesity is a social issue as well. Video games, tablets and other gadgets divert the attention of children from engaging more time outdoors. Not only that, the lack of physical and social activities can also lead to poor eating and sleeping patterns.
Eating habits can also be instilled early in life. Now that we are living in a fast food society, many parents - knowingly or unknowingly - pass on their unhealthy eating habits to their children. The abundance of sugary, fat-laden "kid" foods take over the supposed diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and grains. The more that we adults spend time in work, the less time we set on meeting the nutritional requirements our children to grow healthy. What childhood obesity can lead to may even cost your child’s life.
What Are the Risk Factors Involved in Childhood Obesity
Obesity in children is influenced by many factors, but the majority is attributed to those that we can actually control. These include:
- High-calorie diet
- Lack of exercise
- Socioeconomic factors
Preventing Childhood Obesity
Children are great imitators, and as parents, we have the responsibility to set good examples for them. Helping our child overcome his or her setbacks involve our own time and effort. Make healthy eating and lifestyle a family affair. Schedule a regular exercise activity and involve everything in the family to make it interesting and fun.
Child health and nutrition should be natural as possible. But with adults, some may find more beneficial to seek a little help from food supplements like Organic and Kosher Certified PURE Freeze Dried Açai Berry Powder Scoop. But before taking any supplements, whether, for obesity or other diseases, it is best to consult a doctor for the right product recommendation and proper dosage.
These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any diseases.