As a people group, we Americans are over weight - plan and simple. As bad as that statistic is, even worse is that the rate of child obesity is on the increase. Look around and you will see it. This topic hit home for me when I took a look at my 10 year son at the pool this summer. The little guy has love handles. He is be no means fat or obese, but 10 is a little young for love handles and a belly pudge don't you think? It is obvious that society is aware of this as they have successfully targeted the major soda companies to take soda out of schools and only offer water and fruit drinks. This seems to stop a short as they can still get snack cakes and greasy chips with ease. It is the school's or the beverage industry's responsibility to keep our kids healthy? No, but they need to support what we are teaching at home so I applaud the removal of soda and look for programs that teach the kids what is healthy so they make good choices, not limit what is available and not really tell them why. I also read something recently that suggested that the increases stress level of some children causes them to use food as an escape. Stress from school, sports, parents, and friends.
At the heart of the matter, I believe, is the changes in the types of activities our kids are involved. Thanks to cable/satellite TV and video games, most kids have stronger thumb muscles and greater hand to eye coordination than I remember having as a kid. Again not completely the kid's fault. Parents and guardians need to encourage, no force, the kids to get outside and play when the weather permits. As a kid it seems like we were always outside playing games, climbing trees, riding bikes, swimming, etc. Now it seems like it has to be an extreme adventure or involve loading the car before they ride their bikes. Plus we didn't have cell phones, so if you wanted to talk to your friend you usually just walked or rode over to their house, even if it was across town. The adults in the home need to exhibit this as well, who of us couldn't do with a little exercise ourselves? Get on your bike and ride with the kids, take the dog for a walk, or actually get in the pool with your kids and play.
Finally the food choices that are offered outside of school are a contributing factor. The breakdown of the family and the internet paced lifestyles we lead leave little time for healthy food choices, fast food rules the day! Although most, if not all, fast food restaurants offer health choices very often this is not what the kids are eating. Again, the family needs to be the place where healthy living and eating are taught, with the rest of the world playing a supporting role.
Obesity in children is a real problem and as adults we are responsible. It up to us to make health alternatives available and the normal obvious choice. It is up to us to lead the way in getting more physical activity. Get active and make them join you. A final reminder, before starting any diet or exercise program or new physical activity consult with your physician to determine what is appropriate for you. Good luck and good health.
Simon Volk has been a contributing author for websites and is an acknowledged expert in the field of health and fitness. He can be found on the internet at the website:
http://www.healthfitnessarticle.com
Written By: Simon Volk
