One in three kids is overweight or obese – one in three!

Posted by Ray Gill

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An unfortunate side effect of our age of technology seems to be taking its toll on our children’s health – obesity. An astounding one in three kids is overweight or obese – one in three! The sedentary life of television, DVD’s and video games keeps their attention for long periods of time. Instead of playing outside riding bikes, climbing trees or being in a game of basketball, kids today are sitting still. The topic of putting kids on a diet has now become a hotly debated item. Should you or shouldn’t you? The answer is complex.

The first action you should take to help your child lose unwanted and unhealthy weight is a visit to your family doctor. Depending on the severity of the problem, they may recommend a dietician to be part of the team. Children’s bodies are not like adult’s simply because they are still growing. They are developing muscle and bone, the foundation for their immune system and brain functioning. Good nutrition is important for all age groups, but it is crucial for kids to have proper eating habits. Junk food may be their first choice, or perhaps their only choice! It is up to parents to provide healthy food instead.

Your child’s diet should include a balance of the food groups we all know we should be eating. The important component to this is correct portions. Growing children seem to be hungry all the time. Make sure they have options for nutritious snacks like fruit, whole grains, nuts and raisins. Watch their intake of sodas and sweets. These will really add the pounds. A burger or pizza every now and then will not hurt just watch the frequency. Balanced nutrition is vital for growth and weight control. Plan meals and have family dinners with the TV off – this is great time for quality relationship building as well.

The other equally important ingredient in helping your child reach and maintain a healthy body weight is activity. Weight loss is simple. The formula is – calories out should be greater than calories in! Enroll your child in community sports events. Perhaps dance or karate lessons are more to their liking. Encourage them to go outside and just play. It’s a great way to make friends in the neighborhood. You may have to limit video game time. If you do, help them find other more active pursuits to fill their time. Good health is a combination of a healthy diet and exercise, particularly for the little ones among us.