Childhood Obesity Statistics Are Rising - What Can Parents Do?

Are we as parents in a position to do something about the alarming childhood obesity statistics?

Of course we are! In fact we are obliged to. Although the USA seems the worst hit, childhood obesity statistics are of concern worldwide. It is clear that the primary drivers of the increase in childhood obesity are:

• Fast food
• Sodas (sweetened cold drinks of all kinds)
• Sedentary lifestyle

The dangerChildhood obesity statistics show the problem manifesting in two areas:

1. The physical risks where children are being diagnosed with diabetes previously only found in adults; heart diseases; chronic illnesses and digestive problems.
2. Obese children also suffer psychological damage as a result of being teased, not being able to partake in sport, and the general social unacceptability of weight.

The factsThe USA has about 25 million kids in the 12 - 19 year old age group classified as being overweight, nearly three times what it was 40 years ago. The concern regarding childhood obesity statistics is therefore very real, and overweight adolescents have a 70% chance of becoming overweight adults.

What to do? Fast food should be a treat, not a daily meal. The amount of sugar in fast foods is not urban myth, it is put there specifically to create an insulin spike. Once the sugar has rushed through your child's system the sugar high becomes a downer, and leaves the child craving more.

The same applies to sodas - they have a very high sugar content. Energy drinks are even worse - most energy drinks contain less nutrients than ordinary tap water. I know kids are not keen on water, so just try and make wise choices and set an example. Since my son realized that I drink 16 glasses of water per day he has started alternating water and juice.

Childhood obesity statistics displayed on a graph rises in almost perfect correlation with the increase in turnover generated by fast food and soda companies.

Then of course there is exercise. This can vary greatly depending on personal circumstances, but kids enjoy almost any form of outdoor games. Go kick a soccer ball or toss a football with your kid. Not only is it exercise for them but good bonding time and a stress relief for you.

Leon Nel is the Author of Fit in Forty Days. After more than 30 years of trying various diets and exercise programs, Leon finally developed the Fit in Forty Days program as permanent solution to his own weight problem.

For more articles (or training) on childhood obesity statistics [http://www.fitinfortydays.com/blog/childhood-obesity/childhood-obesity-statistics-are-alarming.html] or to get your FREE Mini Course on how to Get fit and Healthy in forty days go to [http://www.FitinFortyDays.com].

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