Obesity is one of the most severe problems in North America and there are many childhood obesity facts that parents are unaware of. By knowing and understanding the facts and their root causes you can help your child live a healthier happier life. What follows are just a few things that you may or may not know and what you can do about them. Also, there are many dangers of childhood obesity.
One of the first childhood obesity facts that you should understand is that kids don't know what their food contains. Chances are they won't make their own food choices with understanding of the labels on their food until their late teens. This means that you are the one responsible for feeding them healthy food and understanding the label on the back of the can. If you want them to get the best food possible check the label.
The next thing that you can do is lead by example. Children will often refuse to do something because their parents won't either. This means that if you want them to eat their fruits and vegetables that you should eat them as well typically at the same time they do. This will show them that you have to eat them to and that they aren't harmful even if they do taste bad.
One of the next childhood obesity facts that you should be aware of is that kids don't get enough exercise. Have you ever wondered why the cases of obesity in children have risen sharply since the mid 1980's? Sure we can blame it on fast food but the simple fact of the matter is children aren't outside playing anymore. Instead they're inside watching TV, playing video games, or are on the computer. This lack of activity is a major contributor and if you want to fight it simply have your kids get up and play.
While most childhood obesity facts sheets will give you numbers or percentages this means nothing to the average parent. Only the activist cares about numbers, real parents are only concerned about their kids and in most cases their neighbors kids. This is understandable considering we are all human and are still prone to care about our own children and other children near us.
You can link this back to the ancient need for mothers in tribes to watch out for more kids than just their own if you want but that detracts from the point. The point is that when it boils down to it all a mother or father will care about is getting their child healthy. While this is admirable there are a few things that should be considered before going on an all tofu diet for your children.
Western civilization seems to think that fat of any kind is a bad thing on adults and children. However fat is there for a reason and there is a healthy amount for both adults and children. Knowing the difference between obesity and a healthy fat level is an important discussion you should have with your family doctor.
There are many childhood obesity facts out there but there is one more important than the rest. It is your job to raise your child not the governments. You have to feed them right, you have to make sure they get exercise, and you need to be aware of what's healthy for them. They are your children and therefore your responsibility, they are also irreplaceable so take good care of them by keeping these childhood obesity facts in mind.
Alex Semenik is the creator of http://www.smart-weight-loss-tips.com. His background includes being a former professional athlete and personal trainer for over 14 years. His clients range from Mike Tyson (former heavyweight champion of the world) all the way down to top level high school athletes.
