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Obesity in Kids
The Obesity Epidemic – Why Kids Are Overweight
There has been much debate lately over why more and more children are overweight. Obesity leads to a sedentary lifestyle, which is simply not acceptable for our children. Let’s take a closer look at why kids are overweight.
1. Lack of knowledge – Our children take classes to learn how to read, spell, count, etc. Unfortunately, health is rarely focused on at schools. What’s even sadder is that health is focused on even less at home. Educate your kids about their health. Teach them why they should make healthier eating choices, and why it is important.
2. Poor eating choices – Next to a lack of knowledge, lots of kids are just not making good eating choices. When both parents working, many kids are pushed rather quickly out the front door without even eating breakfast. Make sure your kids get a good start to their day by having a nutritious breakfast first.
3. Depression – Many parents tend to overlook this fact-kids get depressed. If you have family members who suffer from depression, be on the lookout for warning signs of depression in your child.
Plainly said, children simply experience sadness. Things like starting a new school or trouble making friends are common factors. If your child doesn’t talk about her problems, this could lead to excessive eating.
4. Changes – Often times, as stated above, when big changes occur in a child’s life, he might start to overeat. Children who don’t know how to express their emotions will most likely use food as a way to escape from their feelings at the time. If your child is going through major changes, encourage him to talk about how he feels.
5. No exercise – Some kids, especially those who do not like the outdoors, don’t get exercise. School systems around the United States are beginning to implement a mandatory time limit of exercise for students. They are even incorporating exercise into the classroom settings, as well as outdoor activities.
While obesity grows rampant every day, we can take measurable steps to prevent it in our kids. We have to start today, though. Tiny steps can make the world of difference in raising strong, healthy children.
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