Ways Parents Can Combat Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is on the rise and even has First Lady Michelle Obama concerned. If you keep up with the news, you have probably heard it mentioned that Obama has been traveling around the country giving speeches about childhood obesity.

A child is considered obese when his weight is at least 10 percent higher than the recommended weight. According to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease and Control, childhood obesity affects 13 percent of high school students. Most children and teens that are considered obese in their youth carry this on to their adult lives.

In adults, obesity can contribute to a number of health problems, including diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke and gallbladder disease.

While some children may have medical problems that contribute to obesity, most are obese because of poor eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle.

If you are concerned about your child being obese, you should consult with his pediatrician to discuss nutrition management as well as ideas for how to get your child more active.

There are some methods you can start now to encourage healthy habits and help prevent childhood obesity.

Exercise. Don't use the word "exercise" around your kid often, as that may sound daunting and even confusing, depending on the child's age. Instead, take him outside and kick a soccer ball around or play tag. Consider signing your child up for a team sport to encourage him being active.

Eat a balanced diet. Make sure your child gets enough servings of diary, wheat, fruits, and vegetables. Consult the food pyramid if you are curious about what your child should be eating. Make sure to avoid foods high in fat, sugary foods, and sodas. Not only will sodas do nothing more than provide empty calories, they can cause tooth decay as well, especially in children who still have their baby teeth.

Limit time with electronics. As tempting as it can be to use the TV or computer as a baby-sitter, don't make a habit of this. If you need to pay some bills, then an episode of "Thomas and Friends" is okay, but make sure that your kid's time with TV, video games, and other electronics is limited. Try to keep it under an hour a day.

Set a good example. Most kids want to do what they see their parents do. If a child sees his mom snacking constantly, that's what he will want to do. If he sees his dad camped out in front of the TV for hours on end, then he's going to want to do that, too. Don't participate in habits in front of your kid that you don't want him to pick up.

There are many outside factors that you as a parent have no control over regarding your child's health, but encouraging good nutrition and exercise habits is something you can do. Not only can this help prevent childhood obesity, you can help your kid set up good habits for life.

Resources:

Centers for Disease and Control