If your child is overweight, she is not alone. As of February, 2009, approximately one in three children was considered obese or overweight, according to KidsHealth from the Nemours Foundation. Don't wait for your child to develop a serious medical condition -- instead, teach her the skills to make healthy diet and exercise decisions so she can maintain them throughout her adulthood. Consult your child's doctor before making any changes in her diet or exercise routine.
Statistics
In the past few decades, obesity has become an epidemic in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of 2008, 18.1 percent of teens between the ages of 12 and 19 were overweight. In 1980, only 5 percent of teens were obese. In 2008, 19.6 percent of children between the age of 6 to 11 were overweight. In 1980, 6.5 percent of children between the ages of 6 and 11 were overweight.
Risks
Although you may not notice immediate symptoms or health concerns as your child becomes overweight, your child is at risk for developing potentially fatal diseases, including heart attack, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Your child may also develop asthma, sleep apnea and high blood sugar. Being overweight may also create a hormone imbalance, which may cause early menstruation and early puberty.
Causes
Obesity may be caused by a combination of overeating and lack of physical activity. If your child spends a long portion of the day sitting in one position, watching TV or playing video games, the lack of activity may be causing him to become overweight. Similarly, if your child eats several helpings of dinner and is often consuming junk food, the extra calories may be causing him to gain weight. Staying active and eating moderate portions of healthy foods will help him lose weight.
Prevention
If your child is overweight, it will be difficult for her to make drastic changes in her eating and exercise habits if her entire family is eating junk food and watching TV. Set a positive example by making time for the family to play and spend time together outside. Eat healthy meals around the dinner table and encourage healthy snacking by keeping a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and other nutritious snacks in the refrigerator. The sooner you encourage your child to change her habits, the more likely she will be to maintain them in her adult life.
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