How to Prevent Childhood Obesity?
Obesity is different from being plain overweight. While anyone is prone to become obese, it is childhood obesity that has serious implications. Obese children are likely to face several health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, sleeping disorders, and joint problems.
According to the WHO, the problem of obesity “is linked not only to children’s behavior but also, increasingly, to social and economic development and policies in the areas of agriculture, transport, urban planning, the environment, food processing, distribution and marketing, as well as education.” Listed here are some factors that lead to childhood obesity.
1. Inactivity
The major factor for accumulation of excess fat in kids is lack of physical exercise. Kids are likely to spend most of the time – almost 3-4 hours a day – in front of the TV and computer. Apart from these traditional modes, now the easy availability of play stations, xboxs’ and other such gadgets contribute to a large extent as well.
2. Excess Eating
Some kids tend to consume more food. When not countered with physical exercise, this excess food is prone to settle down in body as obesity.
3. Unhealthy Food
Kids usually like junk food. Ready made, prepackaged, fat-filled fast foods attract kids more than traditional nutritious food. Besides, soft drinks, aerated drinks and sweet beverages are the ‘staple’ diet for most of the children. Interestingly, fast food firms aim children through their marketing and fill kids’ tummies with empty calories which ultimately convert into fats.
