by Betty Blake

Created on: April 07, 2010

The numbers are staggering.  Childhood obesity has increased significantly over the last few years. And, it is not surprising as children are not as physically active as a generation ago.  Thanks to the tech-age, many children use their free time to play video games indoors and socialize via text messaging.  It has been reported by the American Heart Association (AMA) and other health bodies that the present generation will not outlive their parents as many are grossly overweight and strickened with obesity related illnesses.

Some have stated that the media-houses have a lot to do with the obesity rate in children. They are exposed at an early age with images of their favorite cartoon characters affiliated and partnered with the fast food industry.  Thus, their taste buds are formed at an early stage with unhealthy foods. At every nook and corner of a neighborhood there is the existence of a fast food eatery. Moreover, the schools provide little help when it comes to serving the right foods.  It is reported that the foods in the cafeterias all over America are loaded with excessive amounts of sugar, sodium and saturated fats. 

Clearly, the obesity in children is dire. There are ways to prevent overweight children from eating too much. It has become a life and death situation for the future adult generation.  One of the things that is evident is that the White House has realized the problem.  The First Lady, Michelle Obama has taken the initiative to make this her platform in regards to introduce healthy eating to children.  Since she came to the White House, she started a vegetable garden and has urged householders to get kids active. 

If you have overweight children at home, your heart goes out to them because you are aware of the dangers involved with obsesity.  On one hand you do not wish to create an anorexia problem; and at the same time, you want to raise healthy children..  As a result, you have to handle it delicately.  One way to do so is to keep healthy snacks and foods around the home.  Moreover, kids learn from example, thus, it is vital that you prepare meals that are balanced and healthy.  Follow the example of the First Lady and create a veggie garden by getting your children involved.  Allow them to select a favorite vegetable for planting. Make it a family affair when making the weekly shopping list.  

Statistics have shown that a family that dines together on a regular basis will create a stronger one.  You will get a chance to observe what your children consume.  The socialization aspect of dining will allow them to eat less because they will be telling you about their day and not just gulping down the food. Make it a habit of placing fruits as center pieces or in eyesight instead of stored away in the refrigerator.  When they are filled up with essential fibers from fruits and vegetables, they will unlikely to consume too much of the wrong foods.  It is imperative that you create a balance when it comes to watching television and playing video games.  Make it a daily family event to venture outdoors to explore the neighborhood and play a game of tag.  We owe it to the children.

   

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