With so many families leading hectic lives it’s easy to turn to fast food as a quick fix. The increasing consumption of fast food, coupled with little or no physical activity, are both major sources of concern in the fight against childhood obesity.
Childhood obesity is a serious issue. Studies show that a child who is obese between the ages of 10 and 13 has an 80 percent chance of becoming an obese adult.
As a concerned parent, here are a number of ways to help:
Preventing obesity in children requires helping them increase their physical activity and decrease the number of calories they eat. Children should exercise every day and eat foods high in fiber and low in calories and fat.
Parents can help by buying fruit, vegetables and other low-fat foods and serving their children kid-sized portions, instead of stopping at fast-food restaurants. Signing up children for team sports such as soccer, basketball and swimming can keep them active — and burning calories — year-round.
One way to get your children moving is to get the entire family involved in regular physical outings. You can walk or bike together, and plan family vacations that focus on staying active rather than sitting on a beach. When looking for activities, choose those that won’t be difficult or embarrassing for your children
To learn more tips of what you can do to turn your tween around, click on our OHealthy article.
What is your No. 1 concern about your child’s health?
Tags: fast food, onslow memorial hospital, overweight, tweens, what to do with overweight kids
