Dealing with the Causes of Childhood Obesity

While there are a small percentage of children that are obese due to medical issues, in most cases the causes of childhood obesity are no different than the reasons that adults are obese. Unfortunately, many of our children are following the example set by the adults around them.

I live in an area that seems to have more obese people, including children, than the average area of the country. I have noticed that if there is an obese child, usually there is an obese parent not far behind.

The biggest causes for childhood obesity are poor eating habits, accompanied by poor exercise habits and in many cases they also have poor examples to follow. This country is starting to see obesity related medical conditions earlier than ever before and this should scare the citizens of this country.

This can be changed and I believe that it starts with the parents. The home needs to be stocked with healthy foods and snacks. There is nothing wrong with having a treat once in a while, but these should be served very moderately. Kids need to be taught proper nutrition. It is easier to start these habits at a young age, rather than trying to make these changes when your child is a teenager.

The other problem with today's society is we would rather sit in front of a TV, computer or video game than do anything that requires physical activity. The best way to tackle this problem is to do it as a family and make it fun. No child can resist fun. The best way to get in exercise is to make it a family affair. It is that example thing again. If your child sees you doing something, they will be more inclined to follow your lead.

Changing habits does not happen overnight and there is nothing wrong with changing your lifestyle and that of your children in small steps. Set small goals and reward yourselves (with something other than food) when they are reached. Every journey starts by setting a goal and making a plan of action to reach that goal.