Childhood Obesity - The Cure Begins At Home

Childhood obesity is one of the leading problems affecting our youth. Parents who take control early may save their children from a lifetime of illness.

Huntington Beach, CA (PRWEB) February 17, 2006 -- Over the years, the presence of obesity in children has dramatically increased. Many experts attribute the surge to video games, television and computers. Others believe that the problem stems from poor eating habits while others believe it may be a little bit of both.

Among other problems, obese children are at higher risk for developing diabetes and heart related illnesses. Professionals are often concerned that obese children will grow up to be obese adults, which could have devastating health effects.

A child who is overweight or has recently been diagnosed with obesity, should not be singled out from the family as being the only one needing to make a change in their lifestyle. Instead, the entire family should join together and participate in healthier meals, less television time and increased levels of activity, including walking.

Among the best remedies to combat obesity is eating more fruits, vegetables and less foods that are high in fat. Always have healthy snacks available for your family and encourage them over junk foods. Secondly, set a schedule for the entire family to take a walk or spend some time doing some type of activity, including a game of basketball, a short walk, etc. Anything that will get your child up and moving instead of spending all of his/her time in front of the television or video game will be to their benefit. And finally, be active in your child’s medical visits. Ask the doctor questions about your child’s body mass index, ideal weight for his/her age and height, etc.

If your child is in school, consult with the faculty about the selection of breakfast and lunch foods. If necessary, try and persuade the school to offer healthier foods or snacks. In addition, a physical education class may need to be encouraged as part of the school’s daily curriculum for every student.

If your child is obese, it is important to be supportive through this difficult time and not make them feel bad about themselves. Often, overweight children will undergo teasing at school, which is when parenting becomes even more difficult. Explain to your child that every child gets teased at some point and that there is nothing wrong with them. Be sure that your child knows they are loved unconditionally and make home a warm place for them to be.

Contact Information:
Dana Goldberg
16835 Algonquin Street #411
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
http://www.parentingspirit.com

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