Many parts of the world are experiencing problems with child obesity. Children are becoming overweight at very young ages. Here is more about this worldwide concern and possible solutions.
An adult is considered to be obese if their body mass index or BMI exceeds 30. This number is achieved by calculating one's weight in relationship to their height. However, this number is considerably lower for children as they are supposed to have less body fat than adults and older children. A 10 year old boy could have the same body mass of a 15 year old (23). The younger boy is considered obese while the teenager is normal.
Child obesity is reaching epidemic proportions in many of the world's developing countries. It is considered to be a major concern in the US, United Kingdom, and Mexico. Part of the reasons for this problem is the sedentary lifestyles that many modern day children lead. For instance, it burns up few calories to sit and play video games for hours on end. Many children never take the time to go outside and play.
The Internet is growing daily and bringing many good things with it. However, children are using the Internet to play games and talk to family and friends at social network sites and chat rooms. In fact, young people spend very little time out of doors engaging in sports or exercise.
Children are becoming overweight because they are eating foods high in fat, sugar, and calories. Junk foods are widely available and are very inexpensive to purchase. Also, the convenience of fast foods is tempting many families to eat these meals. If both parents are working it is much more convenient to stop at a fast food place on the way home from work. It also is cheaper than preparing a full meal.
Obese children face the possibility of many kinds of health concerns that can shorten lifespan. These health problems limit one's self image and can cause many emotional disorders. In the year 2010, the World Health Organization estimates than over forty million children in the world are overweight, and this problem is preventable.
If parents wish to do something about child obesity they can limit sedentary activities and encourage exercise and healthy eating habits. Several times a week, turn off the televisions and computers and go outdoors and have some fun together. Parents can tell their kids to eat better and exercise but if they are not setting the right example, there are few chances for success.
An adult is considered to be obese if their body mass index or BMI exceeds 30. This number is achieved by calculating one's weight in relationship to their height. However, this number is considerably lower for children as they are supposed to have less body fat than adults and older children. A 10 year old boy could have the same body mass of a 15 year old (23). The younger boy is considered obese while the teenager is normal.
Child obesity is reaching epidemic proportions in many of the world's developing countries. It is considered to be a major concern in the US, United Kingdom, and Mexico. Part of the reasons for this problem is the sedentary lifestyles that many modern day children lead. For instance, it burns up few calories to sit and play video games for hours on end. Many children never take the time to go outside and play.
The Internet is growing daily and bringing many good things with it. However, children are using the Internet to play games and talk to family and friends at social network sites and chat rooms. In fact, young people spend very little time out of doors engaging in sports or exercise.
Children are becoming overweight because they are eating foods high in fat, sugar, and calories. Junk foods are widely available and are very inexpensive to purchase. Also, the convenience of fast foods is tempting many families to eat these meals. If both parents are working it is much more convenient to stop at a fast food place on the way home from work. It also is cheaper than preparing a full meal.
Obese children face the possibility of many kinds of health concerns that can shorten lifespan. These health problems limit one's self image and can cause many emotional disorders. In the year 2010, the World Health Organization estimates than over forty million children in the world are overweight, and this problem is preventable.
If parents wish to do something about child obesity they can limit sedentary activities and encourage exercise and healthy eating habits. Several times a week, turn off the televisions and computers and go outdoors and have some fun together. Parents can tell their kids to eat better and exercise but if they are not setting the right example, there are few chances for success.
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