Childhood Obesity and Bullying

In an article in the New York Post in February, Kelly Osbourne made a very sad statement. She said, "I took more hell for being fat than I did for being an absolute raging drug addict..." Celebrity status (Kelly is the daughter of rocker Ozzy Osbourne) does not make one immune to bullying. Perhaps her fame made Kelly even more of a target for the rude comments that she endured. Famous or not, over-weight people, particularly children, are targets for not only hurtful comments but discrimination as well. Although there are many reasons why children are teased, weight seems to draw the most attention of bullies.

Childhood obesity has increased and nearly one out of three children in the United States is considered over-weight. Over-weight children are considered at risk in several areas. First and foremost their health is jeopardized. Those extra pounds can cause high blood pressure, high cholesterol and Type II Diabetes. Over-weight children usually grow up to be over-weight adults.

The cruel treatment that over-weight children experience can have an affect on their education, relationships and even careers as adults. Obese children, particularly teenagers, can become depressed, feel isolated and in some cases, consider suicide. Sometimes it is the over-weight child who does the bullying, often choosing a slim victim. The over-weight child often lacks self esteem and expresses jealousy by bullying a thinner peer. So what can parents do to keep their children at a healthy weight?

First and foremost parents must lead by example by being role models. Children learn healthy eating habits in the home. Often parents reward good behavior by offering food, usually a sweet, as a reward. Instead of food a parent can offer a different type of prize, one that does not contain calories.

Fast foods, that are often fat laden, and quick and easy foods have become prevalent in many households. Portion size has increased. Nearly every day an article is written about the benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables. Start your children on fruits and vegetables as soon as they are able to eat finger food. Make meal preparation a family affair. Young children love to help cut up vegetables.

The imbalance between caloric intake and the physical activity needed to burn those calories is causing children to become over-weight. Sedentary behavior has become a way of life in the United States. Often children have a television or computer in their bedrooms. They come home from school and won't be seen again until dinner time; and not because they are outside playing. Parents can limit the amount of time their children spend on the computer or watching television. Getting them involved in extracurricular activities can get them active physically and mentally.

What can parents do if their child is already over-weight? First of all build up their self esteem as best you can without using food as a focus. Do not call attention to their weight or make fun of them or other over-weight people. It isn't necessary to forbid any foods but limiting amounts and portion size is advisable. There are weight-loss camps that work on behavior and emotional well being too. Often over-weight children are the products of over-weight parents so whatever you do for your children will be beneficial for the whole family.

Sources: http://www.weightlosscentral.org/articles/sick-of-
being-the-%E2%80%98fat-kid%E2%80%99-
the-emotional-dangers-of-being-overweight-.aspx-.

http://www.cdc.gov/obesity/

http://www.bullyonline.org/related/overweig.htm