Lynn Burns / October Newsletter 2008

OBESITY AND CHILDREN

As most of us are aware U.S. obesity rates have reached epidemic proportion. Approximately 58 million = overweight, 40 million = obese, 3 million = morbidly obese, 8 out of 10 over 25 yrs.old = overweight, 79% = of American's not meeting basic activity level recommendations, 25% = completely sedentary, 78% = increase in Type 2 diabetes in adults 30 - 40 yrs. old since 1990. These statistics are for adults. How about what's happening to the kids? 4% of children = overweight in 1982, 16% = overweight in 1994, 25% = of all white children overweight and 33% = of African American and Hispanic children overweight in 2001. All of the above statistics have increased at rapid rates. Childhood obesity in the U.S. has more than tripled in the last two decades.This problem only increases with adolescence, when physical activity tends to decline. Overweight children tend to become overweight adults with a host of health problems from diabetes to heart disease. There is a massive surge in childhood diabetes. Contributing factors to childhood obesity include inactivity, high caloric intake, and metabolic programming (hereditary factors). Families eat out more often consuming higher-calorie and processed foods in larger portions, as computer use / TV watching continue to increase. Children naturally gain weight and go through growth spurts, and this kind of weight fluctuation is normal. A child who is 30% or 40% overweight, however, needs help to regain a healthy lifestyle. The most successful weight loss programs for children involve parents. Parents must get involved. Children are dependent on them and need help with choices. Apart from causing various negative health effects, obesity in children also can cause social and emotional effects. Research studies prove that obesity and depression are conversely proportional. Obesity among children can cause social stigma that makes them withdraw from socializing with their peers. They can also develop a poor self-image and feel that they are not being liked at all. Parents can greatly help by making healthy living a family affair, such as limiting TV to a few shows a week, eating right, and being active as a family. Here are some simple activities that can be incorporated to help fight this serious issue we are facing as a nation. Walk the dog, do household chores (vacuum, take out the garbage, wash the car, etc), have active special occasions - go on a hike for a birthday, or to the skating rink, join sports programs, add exercise to weekend plans, take a family bike ride, go swimming, get at least one hour of moderate activity each day, have kids do strength training, buy toys that encourage activity - bats and balls instead of electronic games. Get other families involved.There are endless options out there and it is never too late to get healthier! Never be afraid to ask for support of your friends and family.