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Obesity gives more Health Hazards when Compared with Excess Weight - Coogee Chiropractic Care

Chubby babies are cute, but chubby children are symptomatic of a growing health risk. The childhood weight problem is reaching epidemic proportions with almost one out of four Australian children currently classified as either overweight or obese, according to the 2007-08 National Health Survey of youngsters between the ages of 5 and 17. A report from the Australia Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), Australia's health 2006, showed that the population of overweight and obese children rose from 20 percent in 1997 to 25 percent in2004. Data from the Bettering the Evaluation and Care of Health (BEACH) project estimates that number rose to 29.6 percent in 2008.

However, the problem goes deeper, and younger. The AIHW reports that the rate of overweight and obese preschoolers (four years old) is also on the rise. So not only are more of Australia's children getting fatter, but they are starting this unhealthy condition at an earlier age. Australia's excess weight presents a significant health risk. In fact, the Australian Federal Government added obesity to its list of "national health priorities" in 2008, alongside such serious conditions as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.[1]
Obesity is defined by body mass index, which is determined by dividing body weight by height. An adult with a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight. A BMI of 30 or higher classifies the adult as obese.
These numbers vary somewhat for children and adolescents. Whether overweight or obese, both children and adults are at higher risk of serious health problems. Musculoskeletal issues, cardiovascular disease, some cancers, sleep apnea, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension are among the major threats to excessive weight. For children, the list also includes heat intolerance, respiratory disorders, orthopedic problems, growth hormone issues, arthritis, fatigue, and gastric problems.

Cultural shifts create a weighty issue.

While advances in technology have provided countless conveniences, they have also contributed to anincreasingly sedentary lifestyle. Youngsters are spending more time in front of computers andtelevisions than engaging in healthy, outdoor activities. In addition, children are eating more highlyprocessed foods so their diets contain less nutrition than ever before. On-the-go eating, fast foods, andprocessed microwaveable meals and snacks have taken the place of more nutritional choices. Thecombination of high-energy foods and sedentary activities is a recipe for become overweight.

Parents can promote a healthier lifestyle by first being a good role model. Overweight and obese parents need to make a change in their own habits in order to build a better future for their children -and themselves. Incorporating more physical activities, like family walks and bike rides, rather than watching television or playing video games, not only adds a valuable fitness regime for everyone but also provides more quality family time.

Parents should also offer healthier snacks and meals to their children. Yogurt, granola, fruits, and nutsmake better after-school snacks. In addition, although families are busier than ever, preparing meals together -cooking, not microwaving - is another way to promote togetherness. The cooks in the family can also provide nutritional meals by preparing and freezing them in advance to save time on those busy nights.

The most important ingredient to successful weight management is prevention. Parents should be advised to pay regular attention to the nutrition and fitness programs of their children. Encourage regular checkups with their physician to monitor any unusual gains in the child's weight. In addition, reiterate that vitamin supplements are just that - a supplement to a diet, not a replacement for good foods and health eating.

Chiropractic care can also help children stay healthy. A spinal exam by a chiropractor can determine if child's nerve flow is impeded, which is not uncommon, particularly with activities that could stress the spinal nerves.
Painless adjustments promote more energy and vitality, reduced problems with gut function, and optimized brain-messaging system. Maximizing nerve flow can also contribute to a child with a happy disposition, better sleep quality, less behavioral issues, and an increased capacity to meet their healthy development milestones, which, in, turn, may reduce the incidence of obesity. Chiropractic care is also beneficial to monitor a child's body during the growth stages.

In 2009, the National Preventative Health Strategy set forth a directive to make Australia "The Healthiest Country by 2020". The Strategy focuses on three major threats to the country's health: obesity, tobacco, and alcohol. By nurturing a more weight-conscious generation of young people with healthier habits, we can help to support this critical goal.
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