Huntington Beach, CA (PRWEB) February 17, 2006
Over the years, the presence of obesity in children has dramatically increased. Many experts attribute the surge to video games, television and computers. Others believe that the problem stems from poor eating habits while others believe it may be a modest bit of both.
Among other problems, obese children are at higher risk for developing diabetes and heart related illnesses. Professionals are often concerned that obese children will grow up to be obese adults, which could have devastating shape effects.
A child who is overweight or has recently been diagnosed with obesity, should not be singled out from the family as being the only one needing to make a change in their lifestyle. Instead, the entire family should join together and participate in healthier meals, less television time and increased levels of activity, including walking.
Among the best remedies to combat obesity is eating more fruits, vegetables and less foods that are high in stout. Permanently have healthy snacks available for your family and encourage them over junk foods. Secondly, set a schedule for the entire family to take a walk or spend some time doing some type of activity, including a game of basketball, a small walk, etc. Anything that will get your child up and moving instead of spending all of his/her time in front of the television or video game will be to their benefit. And finally, be active in your child’s medical visits. Question the doctor questions about your child’s body mass index, ideal weight for his/her age and height, etc.
If your child is in school, consult with the faculty about the selection of breakfast and lunch foods. If necessary, try and persuade the school to offer healthier foods or snacks. In addition, a physical education class may need to be positive as part of the school’s daily curriculum for every student.
If your child is obese, it is vital to be supportive through this hard time and not make them feel terrible about themselves. Often, overweight children will undergo teasing at school, which is when parenting becomes even more hard. Clarify to your child that every child gets teased at some point and that there is nothing incorrect with them. Be sure that your child knows they are loved unconditionally and make home a warm place for them to be.
Contact Information:
Dana Goldberg
16835 Algonquin Street #411
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
http://www.parentingspirit.com
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