Childhood obesity is on the rise, and Americans know it better than anyone else. In fact, it is estimated that there are roughly millions of children currently considered overweight or obese. The question then becomes what exactly is the cause, and how are we, as a nation, to fix it?
First of all, it is important to note that children, like adults, must burn the calories they consume. Of course, children, who are still growing, do need a little bit extra calorie-wise, to maintain proper growth. However, they do not need those calories from fast food and candy; rather, nutritious choices have fallen by the wayside in our on-the-go culture.
It is widely known that childhood obesity is linked to too much junk food and not enough exercise. Speaking of the need to exercise, our lifestyles and reliance on computers, televisions, and video games for entertainment are part of the problem. Sedentary lifestyles are promoted by the high-tech; add to that some mindless snacking on empty calories, and we have created a childhood obesity epidemic.
Parents can launch an attack on childhood obesity by setting limits on not only foods that are consumed, but on sedentary activities. As parents, you are in charge of choosing and offering healthy snack and meal alternatives to fast food and junk food. If that is all you have in the refrigerator, then that is their only option. Kids are not always able to make the best choices for themselves; give them a choice between carrots and cake, and you can be pretty certain they won't pick the former.
While childhood obesity is a problem, many people fail to realize that there are more problems than teasing from peers. Certainly, emotional torment can lead to low self-esteem, and this is a real, lasting problem. But there are also very real health conditions that are linked to childhood obesity. High blood pressure and diabetes, for example, are on the rise in children, and it is because of childhood obesity. All of those extra, unhealthy pounds are taking a physical toll on youth.
In the end, childhood obesity is a real problem facing this nation. Unlike many other problems, though, this is one that can be overcome. Parents, understand the potential risks of childhood obesity, and put an end to it now with healthy food choices and increased physical activity. Be effective role models for your children, and childhood obesity can become a thing of the past for your family.
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