The American Academy of Pediatrics declares that obesity is now the most chronic health problem among children in the United States. Larger meal portions, physical inactivity, and lack of healthy foods in schools all contribute to the epidemic. The New England Journal of Medicine researched this issue. They concluded that if the current epidemic of childhood obesity continues, life expectancy could be shortened by two to five years in the coming decade.
Are children in Utah apart of the nation's obesity epidemic?
Yes, experts have noted that percentage of overweight children in Utah have increased in most recent years. A recent study by the Utah Department of Health of elementary students in 2006 found the following:
-More boys were overweight at every grade
-The percentage of overweight students increased with grade
-In 2006, 22.5% of all elementary students were at an unhealthy weight
-In 1994, 16.9% of third graders were at an unhealthy weight and in 2006 it increased to 21.8%(This represents a 29% increase in 12 years)
-Third grade rates of unhealthy weight are similar to the rate for all elementary grades (grades 1-6)
-If the number of elementary students at an unhealthy weight continues to increase at the current rate, in ten years a total of 30.3% of elementary school students will be at an unhealthy weight.
What are the dangers of childhood obesity?
Children who are overweight are more likely to be overweight adults and suffer from health problems later in life. Obesity increases the chance of developing the following disorders:
-Type II diabetes
-Hypertension
-Cancer
-Cholesterol Abnormalities
-Orthopedic problems
-Asthma
-Skin conditions such as heat rash, fungal infections, and acne
Obesity can also hurt children socially and psychologically:
-Low self-esteem due to low body image
-Social isolation
-Increased rates of anxiety disorders and depression, especially in girls
-Increased rates of suicidal thoughts and attempts
-More likely to perform poorly in school
What is the cause of childhood obesity?
Genetics can increase the risk of being overweight. However, sedentary lifestyles is the main cause of childhood obesity. A child's environment at home and school greatly influences their lifestyle. There are many factors that contribute to the problem--Today, there has been a decrease in amount of meals prepared in the home. This leads to eating out more often. Restaurants notoriously serve large portions that have a high caloric density. Also, studies show that children spend a great amount of time in front of the television and/or computer. This contributes to the lack of physical activity that children need. There has been an increased amount of snacking between meals and consumption of soft drinks is more common. Children spend the majority of their day in school. Here, their choices of food and amount of physical activity is determined by their environment at school. In order to save money, meals at school are often cheaply made and high in calories. Also, vending machines make less nutritious foods available to students, like candy and soda. More and more parents are driving their children to school instead of having them walk. Plus, cuts in recess time, physical education, and nutrition education hinder children's physical well-being.
How do I know if my child is considered overweight?
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggest that health professionals calculate a child's BMI (Body Mass Index) at their yearly wellness check-up. Calculating a child's BMI can be time consuming, but new highly structured charts have made the task much easier. Make sure your child has at least yearly check-up with a health physician in order to assess their well being. Also consider your child's age and growth patterns. Even if your child isn't considered overweight, it is still important to educate them in nutrition and keep them physically active to ensure a healthier future.
Are there programs in Utah to help prevent childhood obesity?
Many programs have been implemented in Utah to help fight the nations obesity epidemic. One in particular focuses on Utah's children. In 2001, 34 elementary schools participated in Gold Medal School Awards program. This program is nationally recognized. It awards bronze, silver, gold or platinum "medals" to schools who make lengthy strides and achieve better health related policies that promote physical activity, healthy eating, and tobacco free schools. This program has grown exponentially in Utah over the years. In 2006, a total of 284 elementary schools participated in this program that betters their learning environment. Intermountain Health Care has become involved with the program and hope to extend the programs influence over all Utah elementary schools and into middle schools as well.
How can I prevent my child from becoming overweight?
Proper nutrition should start as early as birth. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) both recognize that 15-20% of obesity could be prevented through breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is extremely nutritious for infants. Through breastfeeding, infants learn to self-regulate how much they eat rather than drinking until the bottle is empty. Formula has a different effect on the metabolism than breast milk. Formula fed babies tend to be fatter at the age of 12 months than breastfed babies. Promoting healthy food choices and exercise for children is key. Encourage physical activity by limiting time in front of the television and/or computer. Involve them in after school programs that focuses on activity.
If my child is overweight, should I put them on a "diet?"
1/3 of America is dieting. However, the irony is that Americans are getting fatter. Dieting has a 95% failure rate. 70% of girls start dieting by the age of 10, which is an indication of body dissatisfaction at a very young age. Since dieting has a high failure rate and can lead to depression and body dissatisfaction, it is best to promote healthy behaviors instead of restricting children from food. Provide healthy meals and snacks in the home. Promote, or preferably engage in physical activities with children. Also, don't set children apart because of their weight. Include the whole family in changing activity and eating habits.
How can I combat obesity in my area?
There are many ways to prevent and fight obesity. Try to positively restructure their environment by including nutrition education and exercise. Make healthy snacks available to them at home that are easy to prepare. Studies show that children with a television in their room are more likely to be overweight or at risk for being obese. Keep televisions in public areas of the home. Involve them in after school activities that promote physical activity, such as community walks/runs or organized sports. Voice your opinions to school officials to help the effort to bring healthier food choices to local schools and more physical and nutrition education requirements.
Where can I find more information on childhood obesity?
Many other websites contain information to help promote our cause. A Healthier future is the goal for everyone. Our children are precious. They are the leaders of our future, therefore they deserve the best-- to live a long, fruitful life. The following are some other credible sources concerning childhood obesity:
http://www.health.state.ut.us/obesity/news.html
http://www.cdc.gov/HealthyYouth/obesity/
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/obesityinchildren.html
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bmi-calculator/NU00597
