Fighting Childhood Obesity

What is Childhood Obesity?

Childhood obesity results when a child is overweight for their height and age. The CDC defines it as a body mass index at or above the 95th percentile of the age-sex-specific growth chart. It is the direct result of inactivity and poor dietary choices. An increased body mass places children at high risk for diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, premature heart disease, liver disease, psychological issues, and poorer quality of life. There is an increased incidence of asthma and sleep apnea.

In the United States, 1 in 5 children is affected by childhood obesity. The children at highest risk are those with a family history of obesity, lower socio-economic status, and limited physical activity. It tends to affect children of color. Roughly 25% of obese children are African American, and 26% are Hispanic.

5 Tips To Combat Childhood Obesity

1. Increase the amount and frequency of physical activity

2. Eat a balanced diet that is low fat and low carbohydrates (watch for sugary drinks and snacks)

3. Limit screen time (TV, Computer) as it leads to long periods of sitting

4. Increase the amount of fiber in the diet

5. Make exercise a fun family activity

Healthy adults make for healthy children.

Here’s to your health!