Childhood obesity is an issue that has become more common in the United States with each passing year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated that obesity currently affects 1 in 5 children and adolescents in the US. Childhood obesity can place children at an increased risk for poor health.
Children that are considered obese are more likely to have:
- high blood pressure and high cholesterol
- breathing problems, such as asthma and sleep apnea
- an increased risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
Children with obesity may also experience psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
Fortunately, parents and guardians are in an excellent position to reverse this trend!
It is important to balance the calories your child consumes from foods and drinks with the calories your child uses through physical activity and normal growth. By encouraging your child to be physically active and guiding them toward healthy food choices, you can help your child get to (and maintain) a healthy weight.
If you would like to learn more about what you can do to help your child maintain a healthy weight, check out the CDC’s Tips for Parents.