Understanding The Dangers Of Childhood Obesity With Life Weightloss Centre
For many people, the struggle with obesity begins in childhood. This is a serious concern because obese and overweight children have a greatly increase chance of becoming obese adults, which significantly increases the risk of suffering severe health problems such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. In some cases, the problem can only be remedied with weight loss surgery.
According to the 2007 Australian National Children’s Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (commissioned by the Department of Health), an alarming 23% of children between the ages of 2 and 16 were overweight or obese according to international BMI standards. And this number continues to rise. However, the good news is that by implementing a few lifestyle changes, these trends can be reversed.
Educating ourselves and our children about the kinds of foods to avoid as well as encouraging regular physical activity can help to avoid more serious weight loss measures – such as gastric banding – later in life. Here are some tips to reduce the chances of obesity in both children and adults:
Diet
It’s unfortunate that many foods that are readily available in the supermarket contain high levels of preservatives, which can lead to addictive eating habits. Many of the snack foods included in children’s lunches such as potato chips and biscuits include additives, which only make your child hungry again within a very short time. Where possible, shop around the outside aisles of your supermarket, ensuring as much fresh produce as possible to include in your family’s diet. Fresh fruit and vegetables are a much healthier snack and although many children resist these foods, with some encouragement they can be influenced.
Activity
Encouraging your child to play sport or become involved in a physical activity will ensure both their physical health and social wellbeing. You can also get involved in developing your child’s motor skills by simply going outside with them and throwing around a ball or playing a game of cricket.
Emotional development
Many people form an emotional attachment to certain foods based on early childhood experiences. Ensuring your child is comforted and rewarded with emotional support and positive reinforcement, rather than food, will help avoid behavioural patterns that may become detrimental later in life.
Weight gain involves a variety of causes and, equally, weight loss requires a variety of lifestyle changes. For more information on the dangers of childhood obesity, as well as weight loss surgery options in Sydney, contact Life Weightloss Centre on 02 8999 8503 and speak with a consultant.
- Loading comments...
