Fighting Child Obesity

by Daphne Kanellopoulos

Some scientists warn if current trends continue, this may be the first generation of Americans whose parents outlive their children. According to the American Obesity Association (obesity.org) and the Centers for Disease Control (cdc.gov), more than 15% of children and adolescents ages 6 to 19 are defined as obese. This pattern of childhood obesity has been linked major health problems such as early heart disease, type 2 diabetes, gallstones, sleep apnea, and high blood pressure.

Factors contributing to a sedentary lifestyle among children include television, computer, and video games. According to the surgeon general's office, 43% of the adolescent population watch more than two hours of television every day. Parents need to set time limits on television, video game, and computer use. It is also important children get at least an hour of physical activity every day. In addition, parents should take an active interest in their child's life. Find out your child's interests and what activity programs are in your community.

Overweight children are likely to be acutely aware of their weight problem. The Surgeon General believes children perceive social discrimination, poor self-esteem, and depression as the most immediate consequences of being overweight. The attitudes and habits of parents and peers influence a child's perception, which is why parents must set a healthy example for their children.  It is important that your child know that he or she is loved whatever his or her weight.

Make sure any diet contains the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for vitamins, minerals and protein.  Be sure to consult a physicians to supervise any weight management program for children. Health care professionals are the best people to determine if your child's weight is healthy as well as rule out underlying medical problems that may be causing the unhealthy weight gain.

Here are some things to consider when trying to get your children to eat healthy:

• Nagging does not work
• Avoid using food as a punishment or reward
• Kids follow by example, try to maintain your own good eating habits
• The entire family needs to be involved in dietary changes
• Begin with easy changes: switch to reduced-fat or fat-free options, replace white bread with whole wheat, and bake foods instead of frying
• Learn how to make healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables appealing to children by transforming them into meals and snacks like meat loaf, smoothies, and pizza
• Involve the entire family in an active lifestyle
• Children who watch more than five hours of television per day are more than four times more likely to become overweight than those who watch two hours or less
• Encourage children to partake of an activity they enjoy (i.e. martial arts, tennis, hiking) so they are more likely to stick with it
• Make sure your children drink lots of water
• Have your child meet with a doctor to discuss lifestyle changes and to rule out underlying health problems
• Make mealtime pleasant by turning off the television and playing soft music
• If you attempt drastic changes, everyone may get frustrated and give up
• Make sure your child eats breakfast. It kick-starts the metabolism and gives them needed energy
• Avoid frequent trips to fast-food restaurants

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