It’s being called a nationwide obesity epidemic, with alarming news that in the past 30 years, the occurrence of overweight children growing up to become obese adults has soared. It is now estimated that one in five children in the U.S. is overweight, with heavy children getting even heavier. Some studies put that figure at one in four, and in some areas one in three. Even more concerning is that being overweight is being seen in younger and younger children, including preschoolers.
Further, the tendency to be overweight is especially higher among certain populations such as African American, Hispanic, and Native American, although in general, the United States is quickly becoming known as a nation of fat people. That’s not something we want for ourselves and for our children, and luckily, more and more people are taking note and wanting to do something about it.
Reversing the trend of childhood obesity isn’t easy. Convenience food (a.k.a. junk food) in extremely large portions is a major culprit in becoming overweight. But so is having a sedentary lifestyle. In previous generations, children spent significant time outdoors engaging in physical free play like tag, recreational sports, playing at the park, and just being on-the-go. Due to busy lifestyles and safety concerns, more children are now kept indoors, and turn to the television and electronic games for entertainment. Usually, time is passed with a snack, which is often unhealthy and laden with fat and calories.
Once the cycle begins, it’s much harder to break as an adult. If you are obese now and were overweight as a child, you know too well how that is true. Further, being overweight can create social barriers as a child. It’s hard enough going through the teenage years with everything going your way, but if you add extra weight and dread required activities such as physical education class, it can be even more awkward.
If you are considering or have recently had weight loss surgery, consider teaming up with a child who is overweight to exercise together and motivate one another. Sharing a common goal of wanting to become more physically fit and engaging in simple things like early-evening walks after work or school can promote self-esteem and a healthier lifestyle for you both.
