Childhood Obesity

Obesity has become a problem for people of all ages today. In fact, according to research, 20% of children aged 6-11 are obese… It is said that the number of obese children in the world has reached 1 billion. Obesity, especially in childhood, leads not only to physical problems but also to psychological problems.

So Why Has Obesity Spread to Children?

One of the most important reasons is the fast food habit, and the other is the sedentary lifestyle. The increase in technology and video games is keeping children away from exercise and making them dependent on home. While the risk of obesity decreases in children who eat frequent and regular meals, this risk increases considerably in children who eat fewer meals and unhealthy diets. A child who eats at home consumes an average of 420 calories a day, but this number increases to 720 if they eat out. The 300-calorie difference is a major cause of obesity, especially for children who are inactive. Controlled meal consumption, supported by snacks, is a fundamental principle in preventing childhood obesity. Children who spend too much time in front of the TV or computer have a higher risk of developing obesity. In fact, studies indicate that the risk rate is 45 percent. Families should play a role in encouraging healthy eating and exercise.

The responsibilities of families are as follows:

• Prepare healthy snacks and main meals.
• Do not force them to finish the whole plate in one sitting.
• Limit high-calorie snacks.
• Do not reward or punish with food.
• Limit computer games and TV.

Ways to Reduce Childhood Obesity

• Do not put your children on diets.
• Guide them towards healthy eating.
• Keep them away from processed foods, fast food, and unhealthy foods.
• Keep them away from sugary drinks and ready-made fruit juices; prepare freshly squeezed fruit juices.
• Have fun time in the kitchen.
Cook meals with them.
• Encourage vegetables, yogurt, and legumes.
• Restrict fat, flour, and sugar.
• Don’t force them to finish the whole plate.
• Prevent snacking on the go. Have them eat at the table with you. Don’t allow them to eat alone in their rooms.
• Don’t use food as punishment or reward.
• Monitor what they consume at school.
• If they insist on snacking, give them fruits, almonds, walnuts, or cucumbers instead of biscuits or cookies.
• Encourage them to exercise, but only allow them to do a sport they enjoy.