Preventing obesity in children
Childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 17% of children and adolescents are obese. This percentile translates to a record 12.5 million children.
One of the best tools we currently have available to combat childhood obesity is prevention. By preventing and treating obesity in childhood we can decrease the risk of obesity in adolescence and later adulthood, along with a variety of weight-related disease processes.
Obesity is defined as having too much weight for one’s height, and can be determined by calculating a patient’s body mass index (BMI). This value can easily be calculated at any visit with a healthcare provider.
How can I prevent my child from becoming overweight/obese?
In most cases, a combination of sedentary lifestyle and poor diet choices lead to obesity.
1. Nutrition – Making sure that your child is eating the appropriate amount and balance of food is vital not only for growth and development, but to ensure a healthy weight. Good eating habits in childhood can translate to good eating habits for life. A great way to incorporate healthy eating into each and every meal is using the “healthy plate” concept. At each meal, you should divide your plate up into sections. Half the plate should include fruits and vegetables, with grains in one quarter of the plate and protein in the remaining quarter.
2. Exercise – The CDC recommends 60 minutes of physical activity per day, every day. This can range from playing outside on a jungle gym to team sports practices depending on the age of your child. Another great idea is to turn exercise into a family sport whether it be an after-dinner walk or a weekend bike ride.
How can I help my child if they are overweight/obese?
The most important thing any parent or healthcare provider can do for an overweight/obese child is to be supportive. Issues with weight can be very difficult for children and their self-esteem.
If you are concerned about your child, please feel free to make an appointment with one of our physicians at WHS Primary Care – Lakeside. We would be happy to discuss any weight, dietary, or activity question you may have about you or your child.