Childhood obesity is a growing problem in the United States. Obesity is now more of an epidemic than it has been in recent history. Statistics show that childhood obesity is now one of the leading preventable causes of death in America. This alarming trend is being felt throughout the country, from every city to each state.
The root cause for childhood obesity is almost always being a sedentary lifestyle. This includes sitting at a desk all day without much physical activity, playing video games, using the television as a source of distraction, and other activities that contribute to poor weight gain. A sedentary lifestyle can be changed by adopting a few simple changes. Starting with a walk through your neighborhood every evening, going for a bike ride, or joining a walking group will help you burn calories and improve your health. Starting a program of fitness and strength training can help as well.
One of the most dangerous things you can do to reverse the effects of childhood obesity is to let your children eat too much. Children deserve to eat a healthy balanced diet full of vitamins and minerals. Unfortunately, most parents allow their child's meals to become more of junk food than healthy choices. This can lead to a number of serious health problems. Not only does a child develop diabetes through eating too much sugar, but he or she can also damage their lungs through smoking. Obesity causes a variety of other medical conditions that require urgent treatment.
You may not even realize the link between childhood obesity and depression. Children who are obese often experience depressed moods and are at much higher risk for depression as adults. Children who are obese are much more likely to have a history of depression. Childhood obesity leads to much greater health problems later in life. A child's weight problems can affect his or her ability to play sports, run on a treadmill, or work out. It can even lead to more serious conditions like type 2 diabetes.
It's important to know all of the risks associated with childhood obesity. If you suspect your child may be dealing with an obesity problem, you should talk to your pediatrician. The doctor will conduct a series of tests to detect the problem. During the test, your doctor will monitor your children's body weight and height. He or she may take blood samples to look for levels of lipids, fats, and cholesterol. These measurements will help the doctor diagnose your child's specific condition and determine how he or she should proceed.
If your doctor finds that your child has a childhood obesity problem, he or she will recommend treating the weight gain. Treatments vary depending on how severe the child's condition is. A child who is just starting to become obese may only need help with managing his or her weight. He or she will most likely be encouraged to watch their portion sizes and exercise to lose weight.
In order to treat severe cases, your doctor may recommend surgery. This is typically only done if other methods have been ineffective. If your child is diagnosed with having this type of condition, you should seek out the advice of an ophthalmologist as well. This doctor specializes in the field of vision and can advise you about the best treatment for your child.
Remember that preventing a childhood obesity problem is a much more important issue than trying to fix one. Obesity can lead to many other serious health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. By taking steps to avoid obesity, you will ensure that your child will have a long and healthy life. Talk to your child's doctor about any questions you might have regarding this condition.
