By Carolyn J. Stefanik
The National Institute of Health reports that obesity rates among children between the ages of two and five have doubled in the past thirty years, and tripled among children ages six through eleven. Obesity among children over the age of twelve is almost four times the rate it was three decades ago.
Physicians use a number of different metrics to determine healthy weight, including age, height, build, and family history. According to the Mayo Clinic, a child who is significantly above a healthy weight based on these metrics may be considered obese.
The most common causes of childhood obesity are sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy dietary choices. Family life has become more hectic and rushed throughout the past three decades, leading to habits that cause kids to take in more calories than they burn and gain unhealthy amounts of weight. Television and video games often take the place of more active play, and fast food filled with fat and sugar is often a substitute for homemade, fresh foods that usually take longer to prepare.
Medical professionals are increasingly concerned about this issue because of the many physical, psychological, and social issues that it can cause. Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can all result from prolonged childhood obesity. Simply carrying extra weight can contribute to conditions like asthma and sleep apnea, and can even cause hormonal imbalances that disrupt physical development. In addition to the physical effects, obesity can also cause low self-esteem or anxiety. It may be more comfortable to avoid socialization than endure bullying or feelings of inadequacy. In some instances, these issues may even lead to depression.
Like many health issues, preventing childhood obesity is much easier than having to reverse it once it occurs. Prevention is easy when kids start young and entire families are involved in the efforts. Simple changes like eating more fruits and vegetables, finding fun ways to be active, and eating meals cooked at home instead of fast food will keep all family members healthy.
The Galion Community Center YMCA, in an effort to help families be happier and healthier, will host a Healthy Kids Day at the YMCA on Saturday, April 25th from 9:30 am until noon. This event will focus on fitness and healthy eating habits that can be easy and fun for kids and will include an open swim time! This event is FREE and open to everyone! Please call the Galion Community Center YMCA at 419.468.7754 by Friday, April 24th to register!