Childhood.Doc

Where Does Child Obesity Begin

Everywhere you look now days you see children who are over weight and out of shape.

The problem of childhood obesity in the United States has grown considerably in the recent years. Obesity is among the easiest medical conditions to recognize but most difficult to treat. Unhealthy weight gain can be related to poor eating habits, overeating, lack of exercise, family history of obesity, medical illnesses, medications, stressful life events or changes (divorce, move, etc.), family and peer problems, low self-esteem, and depression or other emotional problems. Where does childhood obesity begin? The answer to our question "Where Does Childhood Obesity Begin?" is at home! We are teaching our kids how to eat from the day they are born to the day they are on their own. They are like little computers and if you put garbage into a computer you get garbage out. So if you teach a kid to eat poorly, then that's all they know. Parents should educate themselves first and learn what is healthy. It takes time and dedication to replace established behaviors with new, healthier behaviors. Find exercises you can fit into your daily schedule and include the other members of the family.

Healthy Eating And Physical Activity

Health professionals and policy makers are still trying to determine the exact cause of childhood obesity. Whether your child is overweight or not, eating healthy foods and teaching your child to make those healthy decisions on his own should be each family’s goal. Healthy habits are not about eating a certain food or eliminating another. It is really a way of life. Parents play a big role in shaping children’s eating habits. When parents eat a variety of foods that are low in fat and sugar and high in fiber, children learn to like these foods as well. Parents have an effect on children’s physical activities as well. Parents can set a good example by going for a walk or a bike ride after dinner instead of watching TV. Playing...