Childhood obesity has become a very serious matter in America. Studies show that childhood obesity has risen from 5% in 1978 to 18.5% in 2016. Public health authorities have implemented programs designed to curb this trend. Despite all of these efforts, childhood obesity is still on the rise. Between 1978 to 2003 the percentage of childhood obesity increased by 1% every 2 to 3 years. Since then statistics show a 1% increase every 10 years. This is quite an improvement. It shows that the steps that have been taken to fight obesity in children have helped substantially. However, there is still more that needs to be done to end this epidemic. There are many health risks associated with obesity. Children who are overweight are more likely to develop serious health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and a multitude of other illnesses. Health experts recommend that parents stay proactive concerning their children's health. There are various factors that cause childhood obesity. Here's a look at some of them.
1 - Childhood Obesity Due To Hereditary Factors
Studies show that children are more likely to be overweight if their parents are overweight. Genetics can play a big role in this. Some children are born with genes that contribute to weight gain. In these cases it can be more difficult to stay at the recommended weight. In rare cases obesity can be caused by congenital circumstances that can lead to serious health conditions. Children with certain medical conditions may be at a higher risk of struggling with excessive weight gain. Particularly with the use of certain medications used to treat the medical conditions. It's important to have children who fall into this category monitored frequently by a pediatrician.
2 - Children Obesity Due to Low Activity
Children who spend a lot of time doing stationary activities aren't burning off the calories they take in. One of the most recognized deterrents to obesity is exercise. Children who play outside routinely tend to stay in the proper weight category because they burn extra calories off naturally. Regular exercise strengthens the immune system and helps build muscles. Sure it may be easy to provide a child a tablet to amuse themself, but getting them to the park helps fight obesity.
3 - Childhood Obesity Due to Poor Nutrition
Good nutrition is vital in preventing childhood obesity. Children need well-balanced diets and training on how to develop healthy eating habits as a permanent lifestyle. Many children are consuming unhealthy foods on a regular basis according to recent studies. This is contributing to the childhood obesity crisis in the United States today. A few simple changes in a diet routine can greatly reduce calorie intake. Candy and other junk foods should be replaced with healthy foods. Children who are taught to eat fruits and vegetables generally stick to eating them when they become adults. It becomes a healthy habit and it’s these healthy habits that stick in the mind.
Education is a key factor in fighting against the childhood obesity epidemic. Studying the primary causes and coming up with a plan of action will ensure a healthy future for America's children. Helping children to develop healthy eating and exercise habits will produce a healthy generation of adults.