A Guide to Childhood Obesity

In the past, obesity was quite rare, but it has now become one of the greatest health challenges, especially in the developed countries. There is no general agreement that defines the specifications of childhood obesity, but BMI is most commonly used to measure the obesity in kids. Obesity can significantly affect all the aspects of child’s life, and also make the child more prone to various health problems. Obese children are more likely to turn into obese adults, and face many social and emotional problems.

Causes of Childhood Obesity

Obesity usually runs in the family, and child with obese parents is more likely to become obese. Dietary habits are one of the biggest causes of childhood obesity, and other main causes include physical inactivity, certain medical conditions, busy parents, certain medications and socioeconomic status.

Treating Childhood Obesity

It is not easy to deal with childhood obesity, but with the proper support, children can deal with it at an early stage. There are nutrition specialists and healthcare providers who can help, but parents can play the pivotal role in helping the child deal with obesity. You can help the child achieve the healthy weight, and be supportive about his or her feelings. It is important to encourage your child, and be sensitive about his or her concerns regarding social and personal relationships.

The first step to deal with childhood obesity begins at home. The two main aspects of successful weight loss include diet management and daily physical activity. It is essential to change the old habits and attitude of the child, and put a plan in place. As a parent, you need to restrict the amount of time child spends in front of the television, playing games, surfing net and over telephone. Involve the child in the moderate physical activity at least for 60 minutes each day.

To deal with childhood obesity, encourage child to get involved in the activities and sports that help burn calories, and use various muscle groups. Swimming, skating, running games, riding a cycle are few effective exercises that cause sweating and also increase the heart rate. It is important to make sure that the child should not become overheated, exhausted, or severely out of breath.

Diet management plays an important role in dealing with childhood obesity. It helps to educate your child about the nutritional needs, and develop a healthy attitude towards eating. Involve your child in making the healthy food choices and meal preparations. Offer variety of foods to the children, and it is alright to give them sweets and snacks once in a while, but in moderation. Don’t force your child to eat when not hungry, and never use the food to reward or comfort. Avoid restaurant fast foods, and offer a balanced, healthy diet everyday.

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