Childhood obesity keeps gaining as a problem.
Childhood obesity is on the rise with no end in sight. There has been a steady and dramatic increase in obesity for children six to 17 years of age in the past 20 years, more than 50 percent in the six to 11 age group. Childhood obesity is, indeed, a very serious issue.
Won't most kids outgrow their childhood obesity? A chubby two-year-old is probably not at risk, but if that child is still overweight by six the reality changes. Overweight kids who are six or older tend to become overweight adults. Overweight kids are less physically active than their thinner peers. Children are more likely to become overweight if one or both of their parents is overweight.
The American Academy of Family Physicians estimates childhood obesity to include 25 to 30 percent of all children. If a child is overweight at age six, his or her likelihood of adult obesity is more than 50 percent. If that child is overweight as an adolescent, there is a 70 to 80 percent chance that he or she will be overweight as an adult.
Although being overweight is obvious, there is some question about the actual causes of childhood obesity. Weight gain is not always similar among children who eat the same food or participate in the same activities. Watching a lot of TV is a factor that most experts do agree on, however. The children who are most overweight watch the most TV and eat the most high-fat snacks. Television watching also takes the place of physical activity for many children (and adults).
A change in family lifestyle may be the most likely strategy to ensure a lifelong healthy weight. Avoiding obesity in the first place is the best choice whenever possible. A family program of moderate-fat and managed calorie eating with a balanced diet and regular physical activity can help many youngsters avoid childhood obesity.
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