Obesity has become a trend. In fact, it’s a trend that many consider “normal”. It is now considered offensive if you make a comment about one’s weight. Weight gain and obesity is no longer shamed, but instead accepted as a new body type. However, whether you’re on the spectrum of this being rude or not rude behavior, I think it’s okay to come to terms that childhood obesity is never okay.
We need to be concerned about long term health and the bad habits developing at a young age.
Sure, every generation will have its own set of health problems. It’s normal. New trends pop up every few years and the next generation is curious what the current health fad has to offer. The problem is that once there is a health issue, it takes a while before anyone notices and takes action.
For instance, childhood obesity is more often ignored than not. This issue has been on the rise and is now a nationwide problem. Shockingly, the percentage of children who are classified as obese has tripled since the 1970’s. This happens for a number of reasons, but the most common causes are poor eating habits and a more sedentary lifestyle. Children spend much more of their time indoors on tablets. Gone are the days of free outdoor playtime.
Long-Term Health Effects
Obesity comes with some shocking concerns. An obese child has a higher chance of suffering from issues such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure as they age. In addition, there’s also the concern of instilling bad habits at a young age and these habits haunting the child into adulthood. Taste buds are established early on so it’s vital to introduce veggies and fruit once a child begins eating solid food.
One of the best thing you can do for your child is to teach them the benefits of healthy eating and why it matters.
It has Nothing to do with Outward Appearance
Obesity has nothing to do with your outward appearance. Sure, maybe this is the biggest concern and shame you deal with and a motivation to make a change. But, the real issue is the inward effects it has on your body. Being obese was never intended for the human body. Your body or your child’s body cannot handle the extra weight and load. Not only is the extra fat damaging for your organs, heart, and joints, obese children find it difficult to excel in their academics. Plus, children also struggle with mental issues such as depression and low self-esteem.
But there is good news! Obesity is not permanent. I’m sure it can seem daunting to make changes and overwhelming to see yourself as healthy, but it’s totally doable. If you’re the parent to an obese child, I challenge you to please consider you child’s long-term health and what your motives are for your child.
Check out the infographic from the University of Nevada-Reno below to see how.
As a parent of a young child, you can incorporate healthy habits. Prepare veggies and fruit as a snack, offer more water instead of juice, provide healthy protein, and encourage daily activity (i.e. break the TV and tablet craze).
Infographic design by University of Nevada-Reno University of Nevada-Reno
