Obesity is on the rise and affecting children younger and younger. It is debatable on the cause. Added availability of “convenient” foods, the addition of chemicals, etc. But, it is a problem and it is better to prevent it as early as possible.
Will Your Child Be Obese?
It is never too early to start teaching your kids good eating and exercise habits. According to the Mayo Clinic, here are the risk factors for obesity in children:
- Diet-regularly eating high-calorie and fast food
- Lack of exercise- too much time spent sitting, watching television and playing video games
- Family factors- if family is overweight, especially if also surround by an environment with high-calorie foods
- Psychological factors- children that have a harder time coping with emotions
- Socioeconomic factors- communities where there are limited resources and access to better food choices
The complications of obesity for children are numerous. Everything from Type 2 Diabetes to Asthma, and Sleep Disorders. Aside from the major toll obesity can have on a child’s confidence and self-esteem.
So, what can you do if you suspect that your child may be overweight or on his way to it? Schedule an appointment with your family doctor to have your child’s body mass index checked. Talk with the doctor about any symptoms that your child is experiencing. Your doctor can order tests if needed.
A doctor can help direct you towards upping your child’s health and quality of life. He or she can provide a healthy and gradual weight loss plan while also recommending some exercise activities. You can also look to organizations like the Mayo Clinic for programs that can help.
Mayo Clinic Children’s Center Pediatric Weight Management Clinic, Seema Kumar, M.D.
Too many calories and too little activity can cause a child to be obese, but there can be medical or hormonal factors, as well.
Schedule an appointment with your child’s doctor and start on the path to better health.
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