Childhood obesity has steadily increased since the 1960s. With an ever increasing amount of pre-packaged processed foods and a reduction in physical activity this is set to rise each year.
Childhood obesity is now at crisis point. With 16% of 12-19 year olds affected. These children are developing Type II Diabetes and high blood pressure at an early age. They are also at an increased risk for heart disease and other obesity-related diseases. Their weight makes them the target of bullies and children who insult and taunt them about their weight. This can ruin their self-esteem and put them at risk for depression.
Children today make up the digital generation. They’ve been surrounded by computers their entire life and are not as physically active as children of past generations were. Instead of going outside and playing, they tend to hang out indoors, watching TV and playing computer and console games.
Along with lack of physical activity comes the convenience of fast food. There are fast food restaurants virtually around every corner, and they have easy access to snack foods full of saturated fats and sugars. In addition, obese parents are more likely to have obese children. The reason for this is two-fold. First, obese parents probably pass down their poor habits to their children. Second, genetics plays a role in obesity.
It’s crucial that parents are healthy role models to their children and emphasize the importance of physical activity and healthy eating. Parents can create healthy environments for their children by doing regular physical activities, such as biking, swimming, or walking together. They should encourage their children to participate in a range of activities such as sports, dancing, and martial arts. This allows children to develop an appreciation of physical activity and enjoy exercising.
Far too often we reward our children for a job well done with food. Look for other ways to reward your children for doing a great job, such as a special shopping trip or a day with just mom or dad.
Childhood obesity, if not dealt with properly, can also trigger eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. These disorders are usually linked to an unhealthy emotional link between food and problems they are facing – such as their parents poor eating habits and bullying from peers.
Many children today don’t drink enough water. Often when we think we are hungry we are really dehydrated. Too many sugary drinks are consumed by children, when infact, they should be drinking pure alkalizing water which really hydrates their body and helps to eliminate waste and transport essential nutrients throughout the body.
When it comes to eating nutritious foods, parents need to implement diets that are rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole-grains. They can make eating enjoyable and healthy by preparing food together and eating together as a family.
Fast-food should be limited and reserved for special occasions. Also beware of foods that contain hidden sugars, like bacon, barbeque sauce, ketchup, salad dressing, cough syrup, and fruit juices.
If your child is severely overweight and suffers from obesity related illnesses then you can help them instantly by providing them a diet of mostly raw alkalizing foods which will bring their young body back to its naturally alkaline state.
