Childhood Obesity an American Epidemic

Childhood Obesity an American Epidemic:

We live in an era of increasing technology, the latest scientific research, and more knowledge and wisdom than our elders from many years prior. So why with all of this technology are our children more overweight than in years past? Not only does our society have an onset of reality shows that border ridiculous, but now there are shows telling society how overweight and out of shape Americans have become. Two shows we recently learned about are “Honey we’re killing the Kids” and “The Biggest Generation”.  Whatever happened to the days of kickball, Frisbee, riding bikes, or just playing outside with your friends until your parents were calling you in for dinner?

Childhood Obesity is a rapidly rising epidemic throughout the world today. Over the past three decades the childhood obesity rate has more than doubled for children 2-5yrs old and adolescents aged 12-19, and it has nearly tripled for children aged 6-11 years. Obesity is defined as an excessive accumulation of body fat, and is present when total body weight is more than 25% fat in boys and more than 32% fat in girls. The risk of becoming obese is greatest among children who have two obese parents. And obese children usually, but not always, become obese adults. For adults, the most commonly used index of overweight and obesity is the Body Mass Index(BMI) which is body weight(KG) divided by their height squared(M). Look at the chart at the end of the article to see where you fall into. For children, it is a little more complicated, but if you go to www.cdc.gov and type “BMI” in the search window, it will calculate it for you. Although childhood obesity is defined as a weight to height ratio utilizing a growth chart, the skinfold measurement is a more accurate determinant of fat.

Childhood Obesity is generally caused by lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating habits, or a combination of the two. Genetics and lifestyle both play important roles in determining a child’s weight. Televisions, computers, and video games have created an overwhelmingly sedentary society. Children, especially girls, become less active as they move through adolescents. It is recommended that Americans should have at least 30 minutes(adults) or 60 minutes(children) of moderate physical activity most days of the week. How does obesity affect children in the end? Obesity in children presents numerous problems including pediatric hypertension (high blood pressure), Type II Diabetes Mellitus, increased heart disease, and increased stress on weight bearing joints. These medical issues commonly affect adults but are becoming increasingly more common in children and are preventable. In addition, overweight children have lower self-esteem and/or depression, which are generally caused by teasing, and these behaviors/attitudes ultimately affect relationships with peers.

So, where do you start if your child is overweight? First, schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician to ensure that there are no underlying causes or medical issues with your child. Second, get moving towards a more active lifestyle. Encourage biking, swimming, walking, sports, or family outings that involve some type of physical activity. Take your dog(s) for a walk; make activities fun and enjoyable to ensure a healthy lifestyle. Encourage healthier eating habits by eliminating sugary snacks, sugary juice drinks, fast food, and adding more fruits, vegetables, healthy grains, and lean protein.

Check out www.health.gov/dietaryguidelines for more information. If you have any questions or need help with any of the above information you just read please feel free to contact Peak Fitness and Rehab at (386) 445-2348 (BFIT) at 17 Old Kings Road, North, Suite O, Palm Coast or visit our website at www.peakfitnesspalmcoast.com.

                                                      Obesity Class:                     BMI:

Underweight                                                                            <18.5

        Normal                                                                                      18.5-24.9

        Overweight                                                                               25.0-29.9

        Obesity                                                  I                                  30.0-34.9

                                                                       II                                 35.0-39.9

  Extreme Obesity                                III                                > 40.0

Article written by:  Desiree Challice PT, DPT, CSCS, Certified Pilates Instructor
Dave Challice BS, PTA, CSCS, TPI FP3, GI2, JC2