It is true that people are often obese in many western societies. This is reflected in the popularity of food books and fitness equipment. But while most of us think it would be nice to lose a little, bit, we unknowingly know the amazing levels of “obesity” in our communities. Little do we know about the impact this has on our children, as well as the prevalence of childhood obesity.
** What is Obesity? **
Generally, a person is considered "obese" when the amount of fat stored in his body endangers his health. Here are some recent OECD statistics showing the prevalence of obesity:
Percentage of people (over 15 years of age) who are overweight
The U.S.A. - 30.6%
Mexico - 24.2%
The U.K. - 22.4%
Australia - 21.7%
New Zealand - 17%
Canada - 14.9%
Germany - 12.9%
France - 9.4%
In other words, about one third of Americans and about one in five Australians are so obese that they may have health problems as a result.
** Reasons for obesity **
As individuals, we have a tendency to consider our tendency to be overweight or obese. We often suspect such things as genetics, or malnutrition, and although these factors often make a difference, the underlying cause of obesity is very simple. A person gets fat if he eats more calories than he burns.
In other words, there are two key factors involved - the quality of food and the level of activity. And it seems clear that in countries with a high rate of obesity, both of these factors are leading the way. Western diets are more saturated with fat and sugar than ever before, while people are often busy and getting less exercise - sitting in front of computers all day, and in front of the TV all night.
** Consequences of Living With Obesity **
Obesity has passed infectious diseases as an important part of global health.
Illnesses such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, high blood pressure, obstructive sleep apnea, asthma, heart disease, stroke, weight and lower back problems, certain types of cancer, and depression, have been linked to obesity.
In fact, it is estimated that some 500,000 deaths now occur each year as a result of malnutrition and malnutrition. If obesity does not change in the next few years, you will probably pass up smoking as a preventable cause of death.
Worse yet, when adults grow older, they are more likely to pass on their eating and exercise habits to their children. This has led to a dramatic increase in childhood obesity.
** Obesity in children **
Childhood obesity has become quite common in many lands. For example, it is estimated that obesity in children and adults in the US has increased by more than 30 percent in just the past 10 years.
The reasons are obvious. Children are under the influence of obesity on all sides. Many families have changed their high-fat diets, sugary foods, and soft drinks to supplement their nutritious diet. Or they simply stop preparing food at home - the amount of food children eat at restaurants and fast food stores increased by almost 300% between 1977 and 1996.
Children are also the victims of an ongoing advertising campaign that promotes poorly digested junk food. And in many cases regular exercise that has been a part of childhood for many generations has been limited by safety concerns, or completely replaced by immobilizing activities such as playing video games or watching TV.
** Child obesity consequences **
Obesity has never been a good thing. But childhood obesity is even worse. If the fat cells created in the body cannot be eliminated with regular diet or increased exercise. So an obese child usually carries his weight until he is an adult.
On the other hand, if the child learns proper eating and exercise habits as a child, he is more likely to carry on these habits with this knowledge as he grows older.
** What Can Be Done About Childhood Obesity? **
It is up to parents and other adults to teach other responsible ways instead of being overweight. Parents must first identify problems with their personal and family eating habits and work standards, and then make adjustments that will affect the rest of their children's lives.
One effective way is to use the “AKA” method - AWARENESS. KNOWLEDGE of what to do about it, as well as ACTION designed to bring about lifestyle changes. Children have a natural craving for knowledge, a deep desire to improve their appearance, and they will love the attention you give them as you create a healthier lifestyle for your whole family.
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