The Obesity Epidemic Affects Kids Too

Obesity is the accumulation of body fat that presents an inherent, severe risk to health. People with obesity are more likely to develop a range of chronic diseases, have a reduced quality of life, and have shorter lifespans. Common diseases include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, liver disease, and certain cancers. The possible repercussions of obesity make this issue a disease and the frequency an epidemic. For instance, more than 2 in 5 American adults have obesity. The epidemic also impacts kids, with 1 in 6 struggling with childhood obesity. Children need assistance and support to tackle this issue healthily. With medical support and the right parental strategies, kids can treat or reverse obesity and stay healthy and active.

What causes childhood obesity?

Someone considered obese has a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. Even children who are overweight, with a 25-29.9 BMI, are at risk of obesity-related disease. There are many reasons for childhood obesity, with dietary choices at the top of the list. Kids consume high-calorie diets with high carbohydrates, high sugars, and processed foods. Body fat accumulates when daily consumption exceeds the total energy expenditure for the day. Children are also more sedentary due to the overuse of digital technology, social media, and reduced in-person connection with friends. A lack of physical activity coupled with poor dietary choices is a recipe for obesity. Other factors like genetics and underlying medical conditions can lead to childhood obesity.

Setting the stage with children

Parents and loved ones play a crucial role in this process and set the stage for a healthy future. For starters, parents must understand and help address the root causes of obesity. If a clear medical condition causes obesity, the objective should be to treat this disease first. Next, the goal is to promote strategies to stay healthy and active. Forcing changes in the child may lead to resistance and unhealthy relationships with food or people. Discuss the importance of staying healthy and active while letting the child know that weight does not define character or worth. Make the focus of future decisions on reducing risk and improving health outcomes.

Getting your kids involved in dietary changes

The next step is to help the child stay healthy through dietary changes and healthier decisions. A balanced diet with fewer processed foods can provide the vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats needed for optimal health. Dietary choices can also help with weight management. Children are more likely to favor highly processed foods or foods with a high sugar content. Provide healthier alternatives where possible. Have the child decide on healthy options to increase ownership and buy-in. Encourage healthy portions with balanced meals and snacks and mindful eating. Help the child question the decision to eat past the balanced meal, as eating can be used to address boredom, stress, or trauma. A holistic approach to eating helps kids stay healthy for longer.

The power of physical activity

Staying active is another great way to address childhood obesity. Daily movement and exercise improve cardiovascular health, increase metabolism, and encourage muscle growth. Staying active is also essential for weight management. Parents should help kids to stay active by encouraging physical activity. Carve out at least 30-60 minutes for outdoor exercise or physical activity with moderate intensity. Help the child join a sports club or interesting activity that encourages movement. Finding enjoyable activities helps the child look forward to exercises or sports.

Leading by example

The best way to help kids stay healthy and active is by example. Parents of obese children are also likely to have trouble with weight or obesity. Kids are likely to emulate the behaviors and habits of parents. Many only have access to unhealthy choices due to poor boundaries. Therefore, the change must start with the parents. Consider a personal health or weight loss journey and have the child join. The environment must also change. The child will not stay active or healthy if there are distractions or temptations at home or in other important spaces. Surrounding the family with a community of individuals passionate about health and physical activity also helps with motivation and accountability.

Change your child's future

If left unchecked, childhood obesity can lead to chronic disease, mental health challenges, and a poor quality of life. Children can reduce these risks and lose weight by staying healthy and active. Make dietary choices a priority while encouraging exercise, sports, or other physical activities. Try incorporating these habits with the child's interests, hobbies, and goals. Be patient, reassuring the child that the goal is health and wellness, with the side effect being eventual weight loss. Establishing positive habits will reduce the risk of weight fluctuations or declining health in the future. When all else fails, work with a pediatrician, dietician, or health specialist who knows how to address the challenges of childhood obesity.