We hear so much about the obesity epidemic these days, and for good reason. In the past two decades, obesity has doubled in children and tripled in adolescents in the United States.
While genetics plays a significant role in the risk for this condition, it does not tell the whole story. Predisposed doesn’t equal predestined.
The increase in the number of people with obesity is partially a sign of our times: Technology has led to sedentary lifestyles. Many of us enjoy the convenience and affordability of high-calorie fast food. Sports and physical education programs have been cut in our schools.
There is no simple solution to ending the rising rates of obesity; however, there are simple, effective measures we can all take to avoid becoming statistics.
When counseling families and children about maintaining a healthy lifestyle, I like to remind them to get back to the basics. Namely, focus on what you eat, what you do and how much you sleep. Or, as I like to say: Eat, sleep, play…
Ask Dr. Mom: Fighting Childhood ObesityDr. Melissa Arca shares three simple things children needs in order to stay healthy.
I tried to follow your link to your Dr Mom series in the Sacto Bee, but was denied access. Anyway, hello to a fellow Sacramento Connect blogger. After reading your post, I thought you might enjoy LAST CHILD IN THE WOODS, by Richard Louv. It talks about saving our children from Nature-Deficit Disorder. A good read.
Yes, I’ve heard of the book and of him! Looking forward to reading it. Thank you and nice to “meet” you.
A huge difference from when I was a kid is that kids don’t play outside much anymore. We’re so scare of child abductions, we keep kids in the house! When I was a kid, as soon as I was done with homework, I’d go out on the block and play with my friends until dinnertime. Games like hide and seek, tag, and trying out gymnastics probably burned a lot of calories!
I know, we did that too as kids. We came in when it started getting dark outside. It’s too bad. Honestly though, I wouldn’t feel comfortable letting my kids do that. I don’t know why. Sad really.