Childhood Obesity is Becoming More Common in the United States

Earlier this year, researchers at the Health Resources and Services Administration, which is a division of the Department of Health and Human Services, published an updated study in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. The study specifically mentions about the childhood obesity and weight issues in all 50 states. Children between the ages of 10 to 17 were examined. What did the study conclude? The occurrence of obesity among our children has increased in the last few years. As a nation, the occurrence of obesity has increased by over 10% among boys from 14.8% in 2003 to 16.4% in 2007. Among girls, the rate is over 18%. That is significant and alarming.

In addition, states with the highest rate of obesity among kids such as Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Tennessee had over 20% rate of obesity. But, kids in Oregon and Wyoming had about a 10% rate of obesity. Childhood obesity can lead to other health challenges when the kids get older. Also, unless they can change their habits on diet and exercise, these kids who are obese will find it difficult (or even impossible to change to the better) to change because they have ingrained habits. The bottom line of these statistics and reports is that we are an obese nation. What we can learn from this? We need to change ourselves from an obese nation to a slim and fit nation. How do we do this?

It is easier to build boys (or girls) than to mend men (or women). Build them up the right way by starting it young. The National Football League (NFL) has been doing commercials to advertise “play”. The NFL states that kids should be engaging in one hour of play every day. Most kids have no problem with this. In fact, we have to restrain playing too much. When given the opportunity, kids will indulge in play. You do not have to convince them that they need to play outside or to play more. How do you do that? As a parent, uncle, aunt, etc, you can play with them. Play tag. You do not have to take over and play football. Instead, let the kids become creative, and you can be supportive. Go to a park and let them run around. Of course, use precaution and proper judgment when they play outside. Have a pet dog for them to run around in. Cats are great, but it is hard to run around with them- they tend to do their own thing.

After playing with kids, eat together with them. Eat with them with no television. Television is not a good company for kids. Spending quality time and quantity time with kids can prevent childhood obesity. During this process, you may even find yourself becoming healthier.

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