Childhood obesity has exploded over the last few decades. Estimates from
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National
Institutes of Health (NIH) say the rate is now double or triple what is
was in the 1980’s. Today the percentage of children who are overweight
or obese is approaching 20 percent, according to government statistics.
Obesity is the #1 health concern among parents in the US. This is because
being obese major risk factor for many diseases and health problems. Our
modern society plays a part as well with steady increases in proportion
size, fast (unhealthy) foods and electronic games.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, obese children are more like to have:
- High blood pressure and/or high cholesterol
- Increased risk of impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance and type
2 diabetes
- Breathing problems, such as sleep apnea, and asthma
- Joint problems and musculoskeletal discomfort
- Fatty liver disease, gallstones and heartburn
- Obese children and adolescents have a greater risk of social and psychological
problems, such as discrimination and poor self-esteem, which can continue
into adulthood
Cardiologist Jeff Neal of Catawba Valley Cardiology
“Obesity is measured by a person’s Body Mass Index (BMI). BMI
is calculated using a child’s weight and height,” said Jeff
Neal, DO of Catawba Valley Cardiology. “If a child has a BMI over
30, they are classified as obese. In simple terms, the reason a child
becomes obese is caloric imbalance – the direct result of eating
too many calories and not engaging in enough physical activity.”
What can parents do to be part of the solution?
-
Know your child’s BMI –
CVMC Health Library BMI Calculator
- Lead by example, change your lifestyle by cooking healthier meals
- Be active, find ways to add fun activities in your family’s daily routine
- Set limits, moderate the amount of time your child is allowed to watch
TV and play video games
- Limit processed food, you don’t have to be the Grinch and eliminate
all holiday goodies, but you can find ways to limit access to tempting
high calorie, high fat foods
You should talk to your child’s doctor to find out your child’s
BMI and what it means. There are numerous programs that can help you and
your child develop proper eating and exercise habits. Initiate a conversation
with your primary care physician for more information about ways to help
enhance your child’s health by keeping his or her weight within
a healthy range. There are also other medical interventions that can be
used to help a child lose weight, depending on the reasons for the problem.
These interventions still depend on developing a healthy lifestyle for
their success.