It is truly tragic when a parent outlives his/her child. When children are robbed from their parents by a fatal accident, there is often nothing that can be done. However, another culprit is often at work. Childhood obesity can lead to an unhealthy lifestyle and an increased likelihood of heart attacks, even at a younger age. It is time to wage war on waistlines.
In Canada alone, recent statistics report an alarming 35 per cent of boys as being overweight while 29 per cent of girls carry extra pounds. The excess weight most often is due to an inactive lifestyle. But, we really can’t blame the children, can we? Youngsters watch, learn from and model their own parents so examine your own waist and routine. Could you, realistically, spare to lose a few pounds? Do you get winded climbing a short flight of stairs? Do you dine on convenience fast food rather than healthier fare?
With children leading sedentary lives (whether by watching excessive television or playing Video games), they are prone to abnormal weight gains. Before the problem gets completely out of hand, you can help prevent childhood obesity by following a few simple steps:
Promote movement. This may seem like stating the obvious, but it is vital for you to get your child off of the couch or away from the computer. Your child needs one hour of physical activity per day … this could be anything from playing soccer at the community field with some friends, shooting a few hoops at the neighbourhood gym or even raking leaves or shoveling snow from the front sidewalk.
Fill your fridge with healthy snacks. Fresh fruit, vegetables and dip and yogurt all make for quick and tasty snacks for your children between major meals. Other possibilities could include granola bars, trail mix, low-fat cheese and popcorn (just watch the amount of butter and salt …). And when you are grocery-shopping, glance through the listed ingredients on anything before purchasing it. If one of the first ingredients listed is sugar, there is often too much sugar, which is unhealthy.
Set a positive example. Don’t just talk the talk with your children. Walk the walk and live well yourself.
By making a few positive changes now, you can share many wonderful years together. Remember, your child’s health, well-being and future lies in your hands. Find out more information on childhood obesity and learn your child’s recommended weight by checking out the following recommended websites:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Childhood_obesity
http://www.babybag.com/articles/htwt_av.htm
